A Christmas-day fire that destroyed a South Surrey man’s home is being investigated as an arson.
Surrey RCMP Cpl. Drew Grainger confirmed Tuesday the apartment blaze, at 115-1821 Southmere Cres. E., was intentionally set.
“It’s not believed to be accidental,” he said.
Oz Oskam told Peace Arch News last week that he lost everything in the late-night fire. It broke out just before midnight Dec. 25, while Oskam was camping with his children in Manning Park. Damage was contained to the first-floor unit.
Grainger said a police report notes the apartment was broken into – with many items, including Christmas presents, taken – and then torched. He would not confirm reports that gasoline was used as an accelerant.
Grainger noted that while police tend to see an increase in break-ins during the Christmas season, it is unusual for the target to also be set on fire.
Investigation is ongoing and police have no suspects at this time. Officers are reviewing statements and will likely canvas for any video surveillance that may be able to help identify those responsible, Grainger said.
Anyone who noticed anything suspicious in the area on the night in question is asked to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.
Oskam, meanwhile, holds out hope the family cat – missing since the fire – will turn up.
Makso belonged to his 17-year-old daughter, Kelsey, but was a big part of the entire family, Oskam said. While they continue to search daily for the 18-month-old, so far the black-and-white feline is nowhere to be found.
Oskam is confident Makso escaped the blaze through his youngest daughter’s bedroom window – the same way the thief or thieves got in. He is offering a $100 reward for the cat’s return (call 604-842-3516 or email ozthehandyman@live.ca).
Amidst the chaos, Oskam said he has been heartened by the support he and his children have received in the wake of the fire. A neighbour set up a fund to collect donations for the family, whose belongings were not insured; and a friend offered up a travel trailer for them to stay in until they can find a new home. Emails of support have poured in from members of the local coaching community, in which Oskam has been immersed for the past 25 years; and Oskam’s extended family has been “very, very helpful.”
“There’s been some very negative things, but there’s been some very positive things,” he said, noting he chooses to focus on the latter.
“I want to get our lives back on track.”
