COQUITLAM RCMP frontline officers responded to a residential fire near Como Lake Avenue and Schoolhouse Street in Coquitlam on Wednesday at 9:35 a.m.

The residents were able to safely evacuate prior to police arrival and were not physically injured during the incident.

The fire was believed to be intentionally set by a person known to the occupants. Police do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the general public.

Police located and arrested the suspect, a 39-year-old Coquitlam man, a short distance away.

On Thursday, Danny Rusnak was charged with:

• One count of arson – disregard for human life
• One count of possession of incendiary materials

He remains in custody pending his next court appearance.

The file has been assumed by Coquitlam RCMP’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Victim Services has been engaged.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2023-957.