The Major Crimes Unit has arrested 59-year-old Erik Lymen OLSON following an investigation involving an arson which occurred at a social club in the 400 block of Notre Dame Avenue.
On September 11, at approximately 2:30 a.m., a male suspect attended the location and placed an incendiary device along a rear exterior wall of the business. A citizen in the area observed the resulting fire and extinguished it before it could spread and cause additional damage. The suspect fled the area to an awaiting vehicle before police were contacted.
At the time of the incident, the business was occupied by several patrons. No injuries were reported.
Members of the Bomb Unit, Central District General Patrol, and the Tactical Support Unit attended the scene. The device was safely secured and determined to be an improvised incendiary device. It was transported to a secure location and disposed of safely.
The Major Crimes Unit assumed the investigation and identified OLSON as a suspect involved in the offence.
On September 12, investigators arrested OLSON without incident.
He is charged with the following:
- Place or throw an Incendiary Device
- Make or Possess any Explosive Substance to Endanger Life or Cause Serious Damage to Property
- Possession of Incendiary Material
A subsequent search of OLSON’s residence and business resulted in the seizure of a laptop computer, incendiary chemicals, and a 2025 Toyota Tacoma used in the commission of the offence.
OLSON was detained in police custody.
Investigators have determined that the parties involved are known to one another through the business community. At this time, investigators do not believe the incident is extortion related.
The Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Major Crimes Unit at 204-986-6219 or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 204-786-TIPS or winnipegcrimestoppers.org