I've been hesitating to post this publicly, but I feel I must for the safety of downtown Ottawa residents. Here are the facts:

Last night two arsonists brought a full package of firestarter bricks into our building's lobby at 5AM. The building is located at Metcalfe & Lisgar. 1/

We were able to see the building's video footage of the event. These two men got into the lobby, and began lighting the full package. The building is old and has wood paneling on the walls. It is also located at the epicentre of the convoy protests in Ottawa's core. 2/

One of them taped up the door handles so no one could get in or out. This is the most insidious part of the experience besides the lighting of the fire. 3/

After a night of blaring horns and fireworks until 4AM, some residents had yelled & pleaded with protesters outside to stop. As the fire was being lit, a tenant walked by and nervously asked who they were. One admitted being part of the convoy protests. 4/

The tenant quickly got into the elevator and arsonists continued to ignite the package. Once lit, it grew and nearly touched the wood panel walls. The arsonists escaped out the side door as video shows the fire growing. 5/

After speaking with many residents, it became clear that certain protesters outside became very aggressive and angry at the tenants in the hours leading up to the arson. Not all protesters, but a few screamed and were clearly upset by the confrontation earlier in the night. 6/

A good Samaritan was walking by the door outside and saw the fire. Luckily the door opened after some struggle with the taped handles, he got in and was able to extinguish the flames. 7/

It is clear to us, as residents, that this was a blatant reprisal by protesters. Not only have they subjected Ottawa residents to widespread harassment, assault, and aggression, but now an attempt to light an entire building on fire. 8/

Our hope is that the @OttawaPolice and @JimWatsonOttawa will he's @cmckenney's calls for an immediate and firm resolution to the convoy's occupation.

This incident could have ended much, much worse.

^ *heed