Police charge two teenaged males with arson

Lethbridge Police have charged two 16-year-old males with arson in connection with a fire at a southside business earlier this month.

On September 1, police responded to a business along the 1500 block of 2 Avenue South after a citizen called 911 to report the building was on fire. Firefighters extinguished the flames and estimated the damage at more than $500,000.  

Following further investigation, video surveillance of the incident was obtained and police issued photos of the subjects seeking assistance from the public to identify them. Multiple tips were received and the subjects were subsequently identified and arrested without incident after attending the police station. 

Two 16-year-old males, who cannot be identified under provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, are each charged with one count of arson to property – disregard for human life. Both youths were released from custody and are scheduled to appear in court September 25. 

A third subject, whose photo was previously released, was determined to be a witness in the matter and is not facing charges.  

Police thank the public for their assistance, which led to the subjects being identified and the case concluded with criminal charges.