Date: Thursday, April 6, 2023
Files: 22-14561, 22-14619
Victoria, BC – Yesterday, VicPD Major Crime Unit detectives arrested a man for an arson to a family home that occurred in April 2022.
In the early morning of April 20, 2022, VicPD patrol officers and Victoria Fire Department firefighters responded to a fire at a family home in the 1100-block of Caledonia Avenue.
Upon arrival, first responders found the front doorway area and upper level of the home engulfed in flames. All five occupants were able to escape the burning home. Three escaped by jumping from a second-story window, one was rescued by firefighters using a ladder, and one left through a lower-level door.
One occupant suffered potentially life-threatening injuries while escaping the fire and was transported to hospital. It was later determined that these injuries were non-life-threatening.
On April 5, 2023, after a lengthy investigation, VicPD Major Crime Unit detectives arrested Walter “Theo” Machinski of Nanaimo, BC. He is being charged with one count of arson with disregard for human life and is being held in custody to appear in court.
Investigators determined that this was a targeted offence, in which the accused was known to the family, but it was not motivated by hatred towards an identifiable group. Further details about this investigation cannot be shared at this time as the matter is now before the courts. The family impacted by the arson is asking for privacy.
-30-
We’re seeking qualified candidates for both police officer and civilian positions. Thinking about a career in public service? VicPD is an equal-opportunity employer. Join VicPD and help us make Victoria and Esquimalt a safer community together.
