Police search for suspect accused of sparking King Street pedestrian bridge fire

Photos posted to a neighbourhood Facebook group show strong flames overtaking a section of the bridge.

The area was evacuated quickly, police said and there have been no reported injuries. According to the police report, the fire was out by 8:30. 

Video shows suspect near bridge

On Saturday afternoon, the police spokesperson said the Fire Marshall has deemed arson to be the cause of the fire. 

In a news release, police said the suspect set an unidentified amount of combustible material on fire, causing “significant damage” to the bridge. A video released by police shows a man in a dark coat and wearing a backpack walking near one of the entrances to the bridge at night.

WATCH | Video shows suspect accused of lighting King Street predestrian bridge fire:

Video shows suspect accused of King Street pedestrian bridge arson

Toronto police say the suspect is accused of lighting an amount of combustible material on fire, causing “significant damage” to the bridge. 0:15

Police said the suspect is described as having a thin build, and dark-coloured hair. He was wearing a long black jacket, black pants, and carrying a dark backpack.

The bridge over the Metrolinx rail corridor was closed as of Saturday afternoon as city engineers evaluate its structural soundness. The city put up barriers to keep people out as its structural engineers evaluate “the condition of the bridge.” 

“Further inspections are required and are being coordinated as quickly as possible,” city spokesperson Alex Burke said via email.