Ottawa police are investigating a suspected arson following an early morning fire at a commercial building in Centretown.
Emergency crews were called to 164 Laurier Avenue West around 2:40 a.m. Wednesday, where firefighters encountered heavy flames and thick smoke inside a building that contains a restaurant, bar, and lounge. A search confirmed no occupants were inside at the time.
The fire was brought under control by about 3:20 a.m., and no injuries were reported.
Investigators have been assigned to determine how the fire started, with the Ottawa Police Arson Unit now leading the case. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.