Members of the Peterborough County OPP were called to a disturbance at a convenience store/gas station on Highway 7 at approximately 9:00 p.m. last night.
At approximately 8:45 p.m. the suspect entered the store to purchase some items.
The suspect refused to pay the required amount and became irate with the employee.
The employee fled the store to call 911 after the suspect attempted to destroy a computer monitor and cash register.
The suspect exited the store and poured washer fluid and hand sanitizer over two gas pumps before setting them on fire. A fire was also set inside the store.
Officers were able to arrest the suspect and extinguish the fires before any injuries occurred. Several stores located within the building were forced to close.
A damage estimate will be available after lost revenues are calculated.
Murray O’DETTE (age 31) of Peterborough, Ontario was arrested and charged with:
• Arson, disregard for human life
• Arson, damage to property
• Mischief, destroys or damages property
• Assault, two counts
• Mischief under $5000
• Theft under $5000
The accused is scheduled to appear for a bail hearing in the Ontario Court of Justice in Peterborough later this morning.
