Suspect arrested in Rona arson that caused $500K in damage, Powell River RCMP say

A firefighter responds to a suspected arson at a Rona in Powell River, B.C., on May 6, 2026. (Facebook/Powell River Professional Fire Fighters, IAFF 1298)

Days after an arson that caused a reported $500,000 in damage to a Rona location on B.C.’s Sunshine Coast, authorities have arrested 43-year-old suspect.

The flames erupted at the lumber yard of the Rona in Powell River on Wednesday evening, sending a large plume of smoke over the area.

Powell River RCMP previously said the fire caused “catastrophic damage” at the property, but that no one was hurt.

Investigators believe the fire was sparked intentionally.

Officers were able to identify a suspect after reviewing surveillance video and speaking to witnesses, then took him into custody Friday morning, according to the detachment.

The man’s name has not been released.

In a social media post, the local firefighters’ union noted there was a second fire the same evening—at a homeless encampment—which stretched the community’s limited firefighting resources.

International Association of Fire Fighters 1298 said off-duty members had to be called in to help ensure public safety.

“Our members will always step up when called upon, but relying on off duty staffing is not a sustainable solution for a growing community,” the union added.

“There is still work to be done to meet the staffing levels identified in multiple reports and studies aimed at keeping both the public and firefighters safe.”