Waterloo Regional police say two people have been arrested and charged in connection with the 2010 fire at the Campus Court Plaza in Waterloo that caused millions in damage.
Waterloo Regional police spokesperson Olaf Heinzel says Daniel Campbell, 25, of Kitchener and Lyntje Zinger, 24, of Hawkesville, were arrested Tuesday.
They have each been charged with one count of arson -- damage to property.
Campbell made a court appearance Wednesday morning and is being held in custody. He will return to court Thursday to face the charges.
Meanwhile Zinger was released on a promise to appear. Her next court appearance will be June 10.
The arrests come following a lengthy investigation by the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office and the Waterloo Regional Police Service that determined it was a case of arson.
Around 5:30 a.m. on April 22, police and fire crews responded to a fire at the Campus Court Plaza at 140 University Avenue West. The damage is estimated around $4.5 million.
Business owners have been waiting for the plaza to be rebuilt for just over a year, and now hope it will finally be ready before the end of the year. They are stunned by the news of the arrests.
Benny Afrouzi, owner of the University Vision Center, says he's "utterly shocked and in disbelief that any person with any agenda would do such a heinous crime."
He adds that the fire has affected the lives of so many people and their families, and they all want to know why it happened.
Mel's Diner owner Jerry Smith says while he can't wait to rebuild his business, when it comes to the cause of the fire, "I can't wait to find out why."
Police say the criminal investigation continues and additional charges are possible.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 519-650-8500 Ext. 3337 or Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-8477.
