Police have made a quick arrest after a fire at Northgate early this morning.
Robert Atkinson, 50, of North Bay was arrested at the scene early this morning and has been charged with arson (Damage to Property); and breach of a release order.
Atkinson remains in custody pending a bail hearing at the North Bay Courthouse on Monday, December 14.
It's not the first time Atkinson has faced arson charges. Earlier this year he faced arson charges in connection to a downtown main street fire that took place back on July 22.
See: North Bay man faces arson charges in connection to downtown fire
Shortly after 3:30 North Bay Police, Fire and Paramedic Services responded to a fire at the south entrance of the Northgate Shopping Centre.
See: Overnight fire at Northgate Shopping Centre
North Bay firefighters extinguished the blaze found inside an alcove just steps from the entrance and along the structure. There are no reports of any injuries.
North Bay Police say there is currently an active criminal investigation into the cause of the fire, and police have one adult person in custody at this time.
The Ontario Fire Marshal's Office is involved in this investigation.
Police say further details will be released as the investigation progresses.
The Northgate Shopping Centre remains closed at this time but a post on social media by the mall hints it may reopen this afternoon.
"We will be opening a little later today. Please stay tuned for another update.Thank you for your patience!"
See related: Walmart set to re-open this Saturday
North Bay Police are asking anyone with relevant information or relevant video on their mobile phone to contact them at 705-497-5555.
