8th suspicious fire in Waterloo after shed burns

There has been an eighth suspicious fire in northwest Waterloo, fire officials say.

The fire was in a shed early Wednesday morning. Police were called to a property on Clearwater Crescent just after 4:30 a.m. and fire crews were able to put out the fire before it caused serious damage to the residence. There was a propane cylinder in the shed.

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"We suspect it is related to the rash of suspicious fires that have occurred in the north Waterloo area," Waterloo Regional Police media relations co-ordinator Cherri Greeno said, adding the K-9 unit was called in to help with the investigation.

"A male was seen running from the area and a canine was used to try and locate a suspect. Police are currently following up with witnesses."

In a tweet, Waterloo Fire Rescue reminded residents to "secure all outside sheds & combustible items. Want everyone to be safe."

Police are investigating and are asking anyone with information to call investigators.

Officials announced Monday they are investigating "an escalating series of fires" in the northern part of the city. The fires have happened between July 6 to July 30.