One arrested for arson after large fire destroys restaurant in Vancouver

One person has been arrested for arson after a large fire destroyed a building in Vancouver's Mount Pleasant neighbourhood on Thursday, the blaze leaving at least one family out of a home and several businesses damaged.

The fire at Frenchie's Diner, near Main Street and Broadway, was first reported at 10 a.m. PT. Capt. Jonathan Gormick of Vancouver Fire Rescue Services said there was heavy smoke and large flames when crews arrived at the scene.

By 1 p.m., firefighters said three buildings had been heavily damaged in the fire. Frenchie's was entirely destroyed. A family apartment above the businesses was also ruined.

The fire was extinguished Thursday night.

Vancouver police later confirmed one person had been arrested for suspected arson in connection with the fire.

Const. Tania Visintin said the suspect was arrested a short distance away from the fire and was released later in the day.

Main Street was closed to traffic between Broadway and East 7th Avenue, while Broadway was closed between Main and Kingsway.

The public was asked to stay away from the area for hours. People with respiratory issues were told to avoid the area if possible or stay indoors.

Police said Friday the investigation is ongoing.