Arson suspects sought after fire causes $8 million in damage to Brampton school

Peel Regional Police are looking to identify suspects responsible for an arson that caused $8 million in damage to a Brampton school.

According to investigators from the 22 Division Criminial Investigation Bureau, on May 9, 2020 at approximately 5:45 pm, emergency services were contacted in regards to black smoke coming from within St. Leonard Elementary School located at 185 Conestoga Drive in Brampton.

Upon arrival, police say that firefighters were able to quickly locate and extinguish a fire that was found in the office area of the school.

Police say there were no injuries that were reported.

Investigators have determined that the fire was intentionally set.

The suspect(s) allegedly went into various areas inside of the school and caused significant damage to classrooms, electrical systems and other important areas, before attending the office area where the fire was set.

Police estimate it will take approximately 12-18 months for the damage to be repaired.

“Our school is a source of much pride to St. Leonard students and staff, past and present. We are shocked to learn of the extent of the damage and that the fire may have been deliberately set,” said Celiza Ribeiro, principal at St. Leonard Elementary. “We appeal to the community to come forward with any information that they think may help police in their investigation.”

Police are asking for assistance from the neighbouring community, and those that travelled through the area, in checking dash-cam and video surveillance footage from May 9, 2020 between 4 pm and 5:30 pm.

Anyone with information is asked to please contact 22 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at 905-453-3311 ext. 2233. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visiting peelcrimestoppers.ca.