Good Samaritan helps restrain Kelowna pub customer who allegedly set fire

KELOWNA – A customer of a local pub has been arrested and is facing charges after he allegedly set a fire behind the establishment after failing to pay his bill.

Kelowna RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jesse O'Donaghey says in a news release officers were called to a pub on Finns Road shortly before 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 6. A report was made about a disturbance involving a male patron.

Officers arrived to find thick, dark smoke coming from behind the restaurant, and the suspect was being restrained by a civilian.

Police interviewed several witnesses, O'Donaghey says, and learned the suspect — who allegedly failed to pay his bill — had become agitated, verbally aggressive and allegedly uttered threats when confronted by staff.

"Our investigators also believe that the suspect was responsible for the careless ignition of a blaze which consumed a nearby hedge and subsequently damaged the property, a fence and a pickup truck parked in the vicinity," says O’Donaghey. "We greatly appreciate the assistance of bystanders who safely apprehended the suspect and awaited police arrival, as well as those who took steps to fight the fire."

If you witnessed this incident or have footage of the event and have not yet spoken to police, you're asked to call Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300.

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