NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA REGIONAL POLICE
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As a result of the investigation, on Nov. 16, 2020, the suspect was arrested with the assistance from the K9 unit, the Emergency Task Unit, detectives with Street Crime 3 District (Welland), and the Marine Unit with the Niagara Regional Police Service.
Ronald M. Smith (34 years old) of Katrine, Ont. was arrested and charged with the following offences of:
• Arson - disregard for human life
• Fail to comply with release order (two counts)
Smith was held in custody and was expected to appear at court on Nov. 17, 2020 at the Robert S.K Welch Courthouse located at 59 Church St. in the City of St. Catharines.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Niagara Regional Police at 905-688-4111, ext 3300.
Original Oct. 10 release:
On Friday, Oct. 9, 2020 at approximately 12:30 a.m., 3 District (Welland) uniform officers with the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS), The Welland Fire Department, and Emergency Medical Services, attended the area of Duncan Street and Cozy Street in the City of Welland following the report of a fire at a residence.
Officers arrived on scene and observed a vehicle in the driveway and a residence at that location on fire.
One officer entered the home and assisted the four occupants inside to safety as well as the family dog.
No one was physically injured in the fire.
As a result of the investigation, detectives were able to identify a male suspect.
The suspect is still outstanding.
An arrest warrant has been issued for Ronald M. Smith (34 years old) of no fixed address, for the alleged criminal offence of:
• Arson – disregard for human life
Smith is described as:
• 6’2
• 165 lbs
• Slender build
• Brown eyes
• Brown hair
• Shooting star tattoo under his right eye
Smith's location is unknown. He does however, have ties to Welland.
Anyone who may have information is asked to call the NRPS (905-688-4111 - "Dispatch") or Crime Stoppers of Niagara.
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