Executive Summary
- Yuri Khraplyvyy, 42, was arrested on February 6 in connection with fires at the University of Toronto.
- The incidents occurred on January 14 at the St. George Campus, involving multiple fires set in various buildings.
- Charges include five counts of arson, extortion, uttering threats, and failure to attend court.
Toronto police have arrested and charged 42-year-old Yuri Khraplyvyy with a dozen offenses, including multiple counts of arson and extortion, in connection with a series of fires set at the University of Toronto last month. Authorities allege the suspect targeted specific infrastructure on the university’s grounds, leading to a weeks-long investigation that concluded with his arrest on Tuesday.
According to the official police report, the incidents occurred on January 14 between 2:40 p.m. and 4:45 p.m. Investigators state that a man entered several buildings on the St. George Campus, located in the area of Bloor Street West and Avenue Road. Police allege the individual intentionally lit several fires within the facilities, causing property damage before fleeing the scene.
Following an inquiry to identify the suspect, officers took Khraplyvyy into custody on February 6. Prosecutors have filed a significant list of charges against the defendant, including five counts of arson causing damage to property, three counts of mischief, and two counts of failing to attend court. Additionally, Khraplyvyy faces charges of extortion and uttering threats, suggesting a complex dimension to the alleged criminal activity beyond simple property damage.
Investigative Outlook and Campus Safety
The apprehension of a suspect in this case marks a critical development for campus security at the University of Toronto, addressing concerns raised by the string of fires in January. The inclusion of extortion and threat charges indicates that investigators are examining the motive behind the arson, potentially looking beyond random vandalism. As the case moves to the judicial phase, the focus will likely shift to the defendant’s prior interactions with the court system, given the charges regarding failure to appear. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
