Niagara Regional Police are investigating a suspicious fire under the Division Street Bridge in Welland. Emergency services personnel responded to the bridge at 4:20pm Thursday after reports of a fire and explosion. Upon arrival a fire was located under the bridge. Welland Fire Services attended the scene and extinguished the fire. The explosions are believed to be linked to propane cylinders exploding. Officers located a male victim in his 30s suffering from minor injuries. He was treated on scene by Niagara EMS paramedics and transported to a local hospital. The initial investigation determined that two males had become involved in an argument that escalated to violence. The victim was robbed of his personal possessions and a tent was set on fire. 37 year-old Kyle James Armsworthy of Welland is wanted for robbery and arson. Armsworthy is described as a white male, 6’2 feet tall, 176 lbs. with blonde, red hair, blue eyes and a tattoo on his upper back that says “Armsworthy”. His current location is unknown. Members of the public who may recognize Armsworthy or know his current location are asked not to confront him and to call the police. The victim and suspect were known to each other. The bridge was closed while it was inspected following the fire. The bridge was deemed safe and re-opened to traffic at approximately 7:45pm. The bridge did sustain damage from the fire. A damage estimate is not currently available.
