Man accused of arson in Orillia facing new charges

Police laid new charges against an Orillia man accused of arson after a destructive fire in the city's downtown.

A man charged with arson following a devastating blaze in downtown Orillia that left a century-old building in ruins is facing new charges.

Provincial police say officers were called about an unwanted person at an address on Queen Street East on Tuesday.

“Shortly after, police located the male and found a lighter in his possession,” OPP stated, adding that one of the conditions of his release is that he cannot possess a lighter.

As a result of the incident, Brandon Costa is now facing charges of failing to comply with a release order.

He has been held in custody to await a bail hearing.

The Jan. 21 fire on Peter Street South near Mississaga Street East caused roughly $4 million in damage. The building has been deemed a total loss.

While no residents lived in the affected building, nearby residents and businesses were displaced.

No injuries were reported.

The allegations against Costa have not been tested in court.

With files from CTV’s Julianna Balsamo