A 41-year-old man faces an arson charge following a suspicious vehicle fire that disrupted Hullo ferry operations in Nanaimo on Friday.
Incident Unfolds at Ferry Terminal
Around 4 p.m., as passengers queued at the terminal, the man scaled a fence and dashed along the dock toward a utility van. He forced entry into the vehicle and fashioned a homemade torch from items inside, igniting the van, according to Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson R/Const. Gary O’Brien.
Officers quickly arrived, detained the suspect, and firefighters extinguished the flames.
Ferry Delay and Safety Measures
The incoming ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo remained unable to dock for over an hour while emergency crews evaluated the scene and confirmed its safety. No injuries occurred, and damage was limited to the van itself, O’Brien confirmed.
Charges and Court Appearance
Authorities held the suspect overnight and formally charged him with one count of arson. He secured release on bail under strict conditions, including a prohibition from the Hullo terminal and possession of incendiary devices. His next court date is set for March 24.
O’Brien noted the man is new to Nanaimo but withheld his identity.
