Video shows Toronto arsonist try to juggle flaming gas can while torching cars

Toronto Police have released video of an arsonist appearing to set themselves ablaze while torching a group of cars at the home of a Liberal MP in the Bellamy Road North and Lawrence Avenue East area.

Police state that on Thursday morning at about 1:21 a.m., police responded to a call for a fire at a residential property in Scarborough, which has been identified as the home of Scarborough Centre MP Salma Zahid.

According to police, a suspect poured an accelerant onto two groups of vehicles parked in the residence's driveway and ignited two of the vehicles. Footage shows the suspect's gas can and forearm catching fire in the process, causing them to flee the scene while literally spewing flames, leaving one group of cars unignited. 

Three of the cars were damaged in the arson attack.

We are seeking the public’s assistance identifying this suspect in connection with an arson investigation.

On August 27 at approximately 1:21 a.m., an incident occurred in the Bellamy Road North and Lawrence Avenue East area.

If you recognize this individual or have information… pic.twitter.com/yhmCumjIyv

— Toronto Police (@TorontoPolice) August 28, 2026

Police describe the suspect as "having a light complexion with a slim build," and say they were last seen wearing a black face covering, a black hooded sweater, black gloves, and running shoes with light socks. The suspect was reportedly driving a Hyundai sedan at the time of the incident.

Police have released images of the suspect and are seeking the public's help in tracking down the likely burn-injured culprit.