COREY Mario Tavares, 30, formerly of Delta, who is known to police, has been charged for arson at the Delta Police and Fire Public Safety Building over the Thanksgiving long weekend. The building remains closed to the public.

A man walked into the building around 1:30 p.m. on October 6 and allegedly started a fire on two couches in the lobby area, and lit the front counter on fire as well. A member of the public was present during the incident, and civilian staff were also there behind safety glass. Firefighters and police officers were also present in the building during the incident.

Civilian staff quickly alerted police officers to what was occurring. The suspect fled the building. He was located by police and arrested very shortly thereafter.

Tavares has been charged with:

– intentionally or recklessly cause damage by fire or explosion, Delta Public Safety Building, knowing or being reckless of the fact the property was inhabited or occupied.
– intentionally or recklessly cause damage by fire or explosion to property, Delta Public Safety Building.
– have in possession an incendiary material, lighter and gas can, for the purpose of committing an offences.
Tavares is currently in custody, and will next appear in court on October 10.

The Public Safety Building sustained smoke, fire and water damage during the incident, and the full extent of damages is still being assessed. Police and fire personnel continue to work out of the building, but it remains closed to the public.

Should the public require non-emergency police services they are asked to call 604-946-4411, or attend Delta Police headquarters in Ladner at 4455 Clarence Taylor Crescent.