Toronto police have released security footage from a Scarborough MP's residence following a suspected arson incident that occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning. The video shows a suspect igniting a fire in vehicles parked at the home, which is located on Bellamy Road North, near Lawrence Avenue East.

The police were alerted to the situation at approximately 1:20 a.m. It is alleged that an unidentified individual poured an accelerant on two vehicles and set them ablaze, with a third vehicle also suffering damage from the flames. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of this incident.

The released video captures the suspect, dressed entirely in black and carrying a large red jerry can, as he proceeds to pour accelerant on the hoods of five parked cars. After saturating the last vehicle, the suspect sets it ablaze, immediately stepping back from the flames. In a panic, he reaches for the now-ignited jerry can before targeting a second vehicle with the accelerant. After igniting the second vehicle, the suspect flees the scene, leaving behind the burning jerry can at the end of the driveway.

The suspect is described as having a light complexion, a slim build, and was last seen wearing a black face-covering, a black hooded sweater pulled over his head, black gloves, along with running shoes and light socks. It is noted that the suspect was seen driving a black Hyundai sedan.

In a statement to CityNews, Salma Zahid, the MP for Scarborough Centre-Don Valley East, confirmed that her vehicle along with another was set ablaze. Zahid conveyed that her son spotted the fire and promptly contacted 911, with neighbors also alerting the authorities.

Zahid stated, “Overnight, there was an incident at my home where an individual set my car and another vehicle on fire.” She added that both vehicles were destroyed, but fortunately, there was no damage to the house and her family remained safe. Zahid emphasized that she does not want to speculate on possible motives behind this act and prefers to await the results from the ongoing investigation.

This incident has drawn condemnation from various political figures, including Prime Minister Carney and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, both of whom described the act as a “cowardly act of violence and intimidation.” The investigation is ongoing, and the authorities are seeking any assistance from the public that may lead to the identification and capture of the suspect.