Police make arrest after string of fires deliberately set in Fort Erie

Niagara Police have made an arrest following a string of fires in Fort Erie that began in May.

According to police, the incidents took place on the west side of the town and originally involved eight mailboxes, but on June 15 a barn was set on fire in the area of Ridgemount Rd. and Bertie St.

There were no injuries caused by any of the fires but the damage caused by the barn blaze is estimated at $50,000.

As well, police believe the same person is responsible for harassing Fort Erie residents by leaving threatening and offensive messages in mailboxes and making unwanted contact.

Yesterday (June 23), police arrested Chandler Ladd, 25, of Fort Erie and charged him with the following offences:

Chandler Ladd (25 years) of Fort Erie was arrested on June 23rd, 2022, and charged with the following Criminal Code offences:

• Criminal harassment – threatening conduct
• Five counts of mischief
• Nine counts of arson

Ladd has been held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Maguire at 905-688-4111, dial option #3, extension #1009339.

Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).  Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information that leads to an arrest.