Almost three weeks after a break-in and arson that threatened the Capilano University Library, North Vancouver RCMP are hoping someone from the public can help them identify their suspect.
Investigators released surveillance camera footage on Tuesday that shows what happened in the early morning hours of Jan. 2.
The fire was quickly doused by the building’s sprinkler system but the library was left with smoke and water damage and the suspect did pry open a safe and make off with an undisclosed amount of cash.
“(The video) does show him walking into the room where he started the fire. There’s a flash that follows after he leaves so we know he’s connected to the fire and it shows him dragging the safe to where it’s opened,” said Cpl. Richard De Jong, North Vancouver RCMP spokesman.
Police are questioning whether the suspect is a disgruntled ex-student or former staff member. Footage captured by the cameras, however, has been reviewed by members at the detachment as well as administrators, security staff and faculty on campus but so far, no one has been able to ID the man.
It’s not clear why he wanted to start a fire.
“That’s a good question,” De Jong said. “It could be vengeance, retaliation. It could be covering evidence or tracks.”
Anyone who recognizes the suspect, seen in the footage wearing a black jacket, grey hoodie and beige baseball cap, is asked to contact North Vancouver RCMP at 604-969-7964.
