An aggravated assault charge has been laid in the wake of a major fire at a recently renovated housing complex in Prince Rupert.
Neil Robert Samuel Turner made an appearance in connection to the charge via video on April 18. He remains in custody after the case was adjourned until May 2 to fix a date for a bail hearing.
Police would not say how the assault charge is related to the fire at Pine Crest Townhomes April 6. However, they noted the investigation revealed the blaze was intentionally set. Const. Brody Hemrich, a spokesperson for the Prince Rupert RCMP, said the investigation remains open.
The Northern View was not able to get a response from the BC Prosecution Service by press time as to whether further charges are being considered.
One woman was seriously injured in the blaze and transported to Vancouver. No information is available as to her current status, but an April 7 press release said she was in stable condition.
Initially, 34 people were displaced by the fire. Some have returned to their homes, police said.
Prince Rupert Fire Rescue said the unit where the fire originated was destroyed and there is likely some damage to all 12 units, nine of which were occupied at the time of the blaze.
Peter Trieu, the owner of the townhomes could not comment on the overall status of the units due to insurance reasons, but confirmed six families were able to return to their homes.
He said they worked around the clock to get as many people as possible resettled because of the desperate housing situation in the city.
The blaze was reported to emergency services at approximately 3:30 p.m., April 6. Firefighters and police remained on the scene well into the night and the following morning.
Anyone with information or evidence regarding the fire can contact the Prince Rupert RCMP at 250-624-2136.
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