Calgary Police Seek Suspect in Arson Linked to Bitcoin Extortion Scheme
Arson Incident and Extortion Letters
Authorities Investigate Suspicious Fire
Calgary law enforcement is currently on the lookout for a suspect involved in an arson case that is believed to be linked to an attempt to extort bitcoin from victims. On November 19th, emergency response teams were dispatched to a residence in the 1700 block of 8 Ave. NW in the Hillhurst neighborhood of Calgary following a suspicious house fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the front entrance of the home sustained damage.
Threatening Letters and Bitcoin Demands
Following the fire, several residents in the vicinity voiced receiving threatening letters on their doorsteps. These letters, demanding ransom in bitcoin, were left on the front steps of their properties. According to reports, one neighbor disclosed that the letter stipulated a payment of over $1,000 in bitcoin, warning of property damage if the demand was not met.
Suspect Identification and Search
Search for Finbar Hughes
Calgary Police are actively seeking 21-year-old Finbar Hughes in connection with the arson case. Hughes is being sought for causing damage by fire to a dwelling, extortion, and the possession of an incendiary material with intent to commit arson. Investigators suspect Hughes of attempting to set fire to the house as part of a bitcoin extortion scheme.
Public Assistance Needed
Authorities have so far been unsuccessful in locating Hughes and have therefore released his photo to prompt information from the public. Described as being approximately 6 feet tall, weighing 175 pounds, with a medium build, brown hair, and blue eyes, Hughes remains at large. Police are also probing into potential connections between similar arsons that occurred in Edmonton during September and October.
How to Report Information
Contacting Authorities
Anyone with details regarding Finbar Hughes’ whereabouts or the suspicious fire incident is urged to contact the police at 403-266-1234. Information can also be shared anonymously with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, through the Crime Stoppers website at www.calgarycrimestoppers.org, or via the Crime Stoppers app.