Police searching for suspect after early morning arson in Hamilton

Hamilton police are investigating an arson that happened early Saturday morning at a home on Princess Street.

On Saturday at approximately 3 a.m., authorities responded to reports of a fire at a residence in the area of Princess Street and Birch Avenue.

Officials say occupants of the home were able to exit safely and no injuries have been reported. The fire was later extinguished. Fire officials say the blaze caused an estimated $3,000 to $5,000 in damage.

Investigators have determined that the fire was deliberately set. Video surveillance footage obtained by police shows a suspect approaching the residence shortly before the fire and then fleeing the area westbound on Princess Street.

Authorities describe the suspect as wearing a light-coloured hooded sweatshirt, dark pants, dark shoes and carrying a cross-body bag.

Anyone who was in the area at the time of the fire and may have witnessed suspicious activity is asked to contact police at 905-540-5085 or gblunsdon@hamiltonpolice.ca.

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or via their website.

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