Suspect arrested in historic Orillia Ont. fire

A person picks through the wreckage of the Orillia fire on Peter Street. Thu., Jan. 23, 2025.

Police have made an arrest in the devastating fire that tore through part of Orillia’s historic downtown core.

In bail court appearing by video at the Orillia OPP detachment, police say a man is facing charges with arson and endangering life.

“Police arrested Brandon Costa, 35-years-old from Brampton, Ontario with arson disregard for human life, which is an indictable offence that could hold a prison sentence of not more than five years,” said Act.-Sgt. Gilles Doiron of the Ontario Provincial Police.

Police say they recovered video from multiple businesses in the area that helped investigators determine the identity of the suspect.

He was arrested overnight. He is expected to be released from custody Thursday with conditions that include not possessing a lighter.

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The century-old building near the corner of Peter and Mississaga streets went up in flames at about 7:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Orillia Fire Chief Chris Ferry describing intense flames and black smoke consuming the entire building.

“It’s been a long couple of days for everybody involved. The firefighters, we’ve had crews here for the last several days and myself as well. The demolition crew is in,” said Orillia Fire Chief Chris Ferry.

According to the City of Orillia, the building near 7 Peter Street South was destroyed, resulting in the total loss of several small businesses. While no residents lived in the affected building, nearby residents and businesses have been displaced.

Owner of the building, Jeff Pitcher, said he is still processing what has happened.

“As far as going forward, I’m really hopeful we can build back something that’s beautiful. That’s historical. Looking to make it a landmark in Orillia,” said Pitcher.

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On Wednesday, police told CTV News they believed a small fire that was started caused the entire building to go up in flames. The building has been deemed a total loss with damage estimated at $4-million.

The city released a statement late Thursday afternoon saying, “Orillia Fire crews were able to identify and address hot spots within the building this afternoon. Provided no further flare ups occur in the next several hours, the fire will be declared out and officials will release the site to the property owner and their insurance company. Road closures and existing sidewalk closures will remain in place until next steps are determined and City crews can address impacted infrastructure in the area.”