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It is incredibly relieving that no one was injured in this incident, but it’s a stark reminder of the massive safety risks and financial damage that arson can cause for our local downtown businesses. Thanks to the quick actions of onsite security and the critical role played by CCTV surveillance, investigators were able to identify the suspect and ensure they faced charges, even while already in custody for other matters.
Property crimes like this don’t just damage buildings, they threaten the safety of workers and shoppers alike, which is why robust security measures like high quality cameras and active monitoring are so essential. We are grateful to the Winnipeg Police Service Major Crimes Unit for their diligent work in closing this warrant and helping keep our Portage Avenue business corridor a safer place for everyone.
The following is the original post from the Winnipeg Police Service Facebook page:
“Man charged with arson for Portage Avenue retail fire: C26-104358
The Winnipeg Police Service Major Crimes Unit continued to investigate an arson-related fire at a commercial business in the 200 block of Portage Avenue that was set on May 5, 2026.
It was determined a man entered the store during business hours, around 6:55 p.m. He set some merchandise on fire, then fled. The fire quickly spread and resulted in substantial property and merchandise damage. Onsite security extinguished the fire and nobody was injured.
Image captured on CCTV surveillance 1
Investigators identified the suspect and a warrant for arrest was issued.
On June 4, 2026, police attended the Winnipeg Remand Centre and arrested the suspect on the strength of the warrant; he was already in custody on an unrelated matter.
Dwayne Earl SCATCH (33), was charged with:
• Arson Causing Damage to Property
• Fail to Comply with Probation x 2
He remained in custody.”
