RICHMOND RCMP received reports of an arson to the garage door of a residence in the 9000-block of Auburn Road on March 29. According to the complainant, he was able to extinguish the fire, which resulted in moderate damage to his residence.

On March 31, Richmond RCMP received a second report from the same complainant who advised he had located what was believed to be a Molotov cocktail inside his residence. Fortunately, it had failed to ignite.

In reviewing video surveillance, investigators from Richmond RCMP Watch GIS observed who they believed to be the same individual approaching the residence and committing the alleged offences. The man was ultimately identified, arrested and held in custody.

The BC Prosecution Service has approved 10 charges against Maximino Dauz. The charges include arson, arson causing property damage and mischief endangering life. Dauz was remanded and remains in custody.

“Fortunately, no one was injured but the sheer lack of regard for human life and wanton destruction of property in these alleged offences is frightening,” said Inspector Michael Cohee, Officer-in-Charge of Richmond RCMP Operations Support. “Fortunately, our investigators were able to identify and quickly arrest this suspect before something even worse happened.”

The investigation remains active and ongoing.

Anyone who may have witnessed anything or have information regarding this file is asked to call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you are requested to contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.solvecrime.ca.