A 64-year-old man is facing multiple charges in connection with a fire at a downtown Windsor apartment building Thursday.
The events began shortly before 11:30 a.m., when Sheriff's Office personnel, apartment building security, and City of Windsor housing staff tried to execute an eviction at a high-rise on Ouellette Avenue between Erie Street and Elliott Street.
When they arrived at the unit, they found the suspect wearing a hazardous materials suit and respirator mask. Police allege the tenant sprayed the visitors with a noxious substance, forcing them to retreat to the lobby.
The tenant soon entered the lobby and was eventually turned over to Windsor police.
A fire was then spotted on the tenant's balcony. According to police, the tenant admitted to starting it. Windsor Fire and Rescue crews brought the fire under control at around noon.
The tenant was brought to the hospital to be evaluated. No one else was injured.
The man is charged with two counts of assaulting a peace officer with a weapon, assault with a weapon, and arson with disregard for human life.
The charges have not been proven in court.
The investigation continues. Anyone with information should call Windsor police's Major Crime Unit at (519) 255-6700 ext. 4830. Anonymous tips may be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (519) 258-8477 (TIPS).
