On Aug. 19, 2026, between the hours of 9 and 10 p.m., the EPS learned about fires that were set at an apartment building in the area of 83 Street and 117 Avenue and at two houses in the area of 81 Street and 115 Avenue. While no injuries were reported, several of the incidents posed significant risk to nearby occupied homes, resulting in minor property damage to fencing and a tree close to the primary sites.
Police undertook a coordinated investigation that involved the review of CCTV evidence that identified a male suspect. With this footage, officers were able to identify and arrest the male suspect in the area of 116 Avenue and Fort Road on the same evening.
On Aug. 20, 2026, 25-year-old Cody Perrott McCarthy was charged with five criminal offences, including arson with disregard for human life and arson causing property damage (x4).
“When a fire is intentionally set, the potential for harm can extend well beyond the property involved,” says Acting Inspector Eric Stewart of the EPS Investigations Branch. “I want to recognize the efforts of our investigators, patrol officers, and Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, whose teamwork and dedication were instrumental in advancing this investigation and identifying the person responsible.”
As of May 2026, the EPS has investigated approximately 146 suspicious fires.