Calgary Police Searching for Arson Suspect in Bitcoin Extortion Case

Hey there! If you’re in Calgary or the surrounding area, you might have heard about the recent arson case that has authorities on the lookout for a suspect. It all started on November 19th, when emergency crews rushed to the scene of a suspicious fire in the Hillhurst neighborhood on 8 Ave. NW.

Thankfully, no one was injured in the incident, but investigators quickly connected the dots when residents in the area reported receiving threatening letters shortly after the fire. These letters, demanding bitcoin payments to avoid property damage, were left on doorsteps around the neighborhood. One neighbor even shared that they were asked for over $1,000 in bitcoin to prevent harm to their home.

Now, the Calgary Police are on the hunt for a 21-year-old named Finbar Hughes. He’s wanted for a string of charges related to the arson, extortion, and possession of materials meant for arson. The authorities believe Hughes was behind the attempt to burn down the house in exchange for bitcoin payments.

If you have any information on Hughes’ whereabouts or the suspicious fire, don’t hesitate to reach out to the police at 403-266-1234. You can also share tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or on their website. Let’s all work together to keep our community safe and secure.