Red Deer police and fire crews are investigating a suspected arson in the Mountview neighbourhood.
A renter in a home at 3510 42nd Ave. noticed the rear of the residence was in flames at about 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday. He called 911, then proceeded to shovel show onto the fire to extinguish most of the blaze, said Pat Mulrooney, a platoon chief with Red Deer Emergency Services.
About 15 firefighters arrived at the scene, along with police investigators.
Mulrooney said evidence found indicates the fire was purposely set, so it’s being investigated as a suspected arson. A police dog team was also brought in but so far there are no suspects.
Firefighters stayed for about an hour and a half to ensure the fire was completely out. Mulrooney said the flames were found to have extended inside the house, and some floor and ceiling tiles had to be removed.
He estimated the damage to be about $5,000.
“It could have been a lot worse. It’s a good thing (the renter) was home at that time of day.”
Members of the Red Deer City RCMP and the fire inspector continue to investigate.