Photo: Contributed

Surrey RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying an arson suspect.

Cpl. Scotty Schumann said on Dec. 1 at 9 a.m., Surrey RCMP was called to the 14000 block of 68th Avenue in the Newton area for a house fire.

“Thankfully none of the occupants or firefighters were injured during the blaze. Police and fire investigators have determined the fire was intentionally set,” said Schumann.

Canvassing the neighbourhood for witnesses and surveillance has been done as well as a thorough examination of the scene. A suspicious person, described only as wearing a black winter coat and black baseball hat, was seen in the area during the time of the fire.

“This was a very serious offense with the potential for very dire consequences,” said Schumann. “Unfortunately, all the occupants have been displaced as a result of this fire. Investigators are hopeful someone in the community may have seen something out of the ordinary and call police right away with that information.”

Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.