Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) officers are investigating a suspicious fire under the Division Street Bridge in Welland.
On December 13, 2023, at 4:20pm emergency services personnel responded to the Division Street Bridge in Welland after reports of a fire and explosion. Upon arrival a fire was located under the bridge. Welland Fire Services attended the scene and extinguished the fire. The explosions are believed to be linked to propane cylinders exploding.
Officers located a male victim in his 30s suffering from minor injuries. He was treated on scene by Niagara Emergency Medical Services paramedics and transported to a local hospital.
The initial investigation determined that two males had become involved in an argument that escalated to violence. The victim was robbed of his personal possessions and a tent was set on fire.
Kyle James Armsworthy (37 yrs.) of Welland is wanted for the Criminal Code offences of:
Robbery Arson
Armsworthy (see photo) is described as:
White male 6’2 feet tall 176 lbs Blonde, red hair Blue eyes Tattoo – Upper back – “Armsworthy”
Armsworthy’s current location is unknown. Members of the public who may recognize Armsworthy or know his current location are asked not to confront him and to call the police.
3 District detectives have been assigned to this investigation. The victim and suspect were known to each other. The bridge was closed while it was inspected following the fire. The bridge was deemed safe and re-opened to traffic at approximately 7:45pm. The bridge did sustain damage from the fire. A damage estimate is not currently available.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the investigating officers by calling 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009470.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.
Click Here for Crime Stoppers Online
23-138164