Two days after a devastating multi-million dollar fire destroyed a popular Wortley Village café, a 20-year-old man has been charged with arson.
The Black Walnut Café at 134 Wortley Road went up in flames around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday. Firefighters spent hours trying to extinguish the flames. Originally trying to battle the fire from both the inside and outside, before the attic collapsed making it too dangerous for crews to remain in the building. Eventually, it was determined the only way to fully douse the fire and numerous hot spots was to bring in heavy equipment to level the two-storey building.
No injuries were reported and damage from the fire was estimated at $2 million.
While no specifics about the possible cause was released, London police and fire officials deemed the fire suspicious in nature. The café owners hinted in a social media post the blaze was set outside before spreading to the interior of the building.
On Tuesday, it was announced an arrest had been made.
Sean Moyles, 20, of London has been charged with one count each of arson with disregard to human life and arson causing damage to property. He was scheduled to appear in London court in relation to the charges Tuesday.
In addition to leaving a large hole in the Old South neighbourhood, the blaze saddened many people in the community. The Black Walnut café has been a popular spot for those wanting coffee, breakfast, lunch or dessert since 2011. Its second location on Richmond Street near Piccadilly Street remains open.
The Old South Business Association has created an online fundraiser for the owners of the café. People can choose to donate cash or purchase limited edition t-shirts and Cafés of Old South 16″ x 20″ posters through the site. The fundraiser has brought in nearly $3,000 since it was launched late Monday.
