Montreal police investigating overnight arson

A Montreal police vehicle is seen in Montreal, Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press)

Montreal police (SPVM) are investigating after a restaurant in Villeray was the target an of an arson attack early Thursday morning.

The SPVM says it received calls at 3:45 a.m. reporting a fire in a building with both commercial and residential units on Saint-Dominique Street, near Liège Street.

Police say a suspect allegedly smashed the storefront window, set the fire and fled before officers arrived at the scene. Incendiary materials were found on site.

Firefighters quickly got the fire under control and about 10 residents living above the restaurant were evacuated. They were able to go back to their apartments within a few hours, police say.

The police arson unit is now investigating and no arrests have been made.