Caught on video: Suspect sets fire to Richmond Hill barbershop

Police have released video of a suspect setting fire to a Richmond Hill barbershop earlier this week.

York Regional Police say officers were called to the area of ​​Yonge Street and Major Mackenzie Drive on May 1 at approximately 3:45 a.m. for a report of a fire.

When emergency crews arrived at the scene, police said, they found the front window of the business had been smashed and the interior was engulfed in flames.

The fire was extinguished and no injuries were reported.

In video released by investigators on Friday, a suspect dressed in dark-colored clothing is seen inside the business with what appears to be a gasoline can. The suspect appears to cover the property with an unidentified liquid before returning to the front of the store and turning it on.

Suddenly, the entire barbershop goes up in flames as thick smoke obscures the view of a surveillance camera.

“Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity, or anyone with video recording capturing any suspicious activity in the area, to come forward,” police said in a news release accompanying Friday’s video. .

Police are asking anyone with information related to the arson investigation to contact them at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7241 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.