Toronto police have arrested one suspect and are actively searching for another after a shocking incident involving several vehicles being set on fire at the home of Salma Zahid, the Member of Parliament for Scarborough Centre-Don Valley East. The arson occurred early in the morning on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in the Bellamy Road North and Lawrence Avenue East area, just before 1:30 a.m.

Emergency crews responded to the scene following reports of the fire, where they discovered that a suspect, captured on security video, was seen dressed in black pouring an accelerant on the hoods of five cars parked in the driveway and igniting them. Ultimately, three vehicles suffered significant damage, prompting police to investigate the case thoroughly.

On Sunday, August 30, 2026, authorities successfully apprehended 24-year-old Roshvin Crofton, charging him with multiple offenses including arson causing damage to property, mischief over $5,000, conspiracy to commit an indictable offense, and possession of incendiary material. In addition, he faces a charge for failing to comply with a prior probation order.

The police have expressed their determination to identify a second suspect believed to be involved in this alarming incident. They are also seeking information regarding a black 2025 Hyundai Sonata, which may have been connected to the event, specifically between August 23, 2026, and the time of the arson on August 27, 2026.

Political leaders condemn arson at MP's home

In her statement, MP Salma Zahid confirmed that the fires occurred at her residence but reassured the public that her family and she were safe, with no damage to their home. While she mentioned that she would not speculate on a potential motive, she emphasized her willingness to await the results of the ongoing investigation.

Following the arrests, Zahid expressed her relief regarding the safety of her family and indicated that there were still unanswered questions about the incident's motivation.

My statement regarding the police update regarding the arson incident outside my home. pic.twitter.com/qLmZU83iTf

— Salma Zahid (@SalmaZahid15) September 4, 2026

Prime Minister Mark Carney publicly condemned the act, calling it “a cowardly act of violence.” In his statement, he expressed relief at the news that Zahid and her family were unharmed and assured that the Toronto Police had his full support in dealing with the situation.

Last night, MP Salma Zahid's car was set on fire outside of her home in Scarborough.

This is a cowardly act of violence and intimidation. It is unacceptable. It is not who we are as Canadians.

I’m relieved Salma and her family are safe. The Toronto Police have my full support... https://t.co/0jLhnyXsqv

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) August 27, 2026

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow also commented on the incident, expressing her relief that no injuries were reported and thanking emergency responders for their prompt actions. She characterized the incident as a cowardly act that should not be tolerated in society.

I am relieved to hear MP Zahid and her family are safe after a suspected arson at her home.

Thank you to Toronto Police and Toronto Fire for your quick response and investigations into this incident. Cowardly acts of violence and intimidation cannot be tolerated and the police... https://t.co/5FDboIP6lB

— Mayor Olivia Chow