A man has been charged with arson after a fire on August 27, 2026 destroyed two vehicles parked at the residence of Liberal Member of Parliament Salma Zahid in Toronto. Police are also actively searching for a second individual believed to be involved in the same incident.
The blaze, which officials described as an intentional arson attack, completely consumed both cars at the property located in the Scarborough Centre‑Don Valley East riding. No injuries were reported, and the MP’s home itself was not damaged by the flames.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that one suspect has been identified, apprehended and formally charged with the crime. The identity of the charged individual has not been released, and the specific charges beyond arson have not been detailed. A separate suspect remains at large, and authorities have issued a public notice seeking information that could lead to his arrest.
The investigation is being conducted by Toronto police in coordination with provincial and federal agencies, given the political profile of the victim. The police have not indicated a motive for the attack, but they emphasized that the act was deliberate and premeditated.
Salma Zahid, who represents the Scarborough Centre‑Don Valley East riding in the House of Commons, has not made a public comment on the matter at the time of reporting. The incident underscores the heightened security concerns for public officials, particularly those residing in high‑profile neighbourhoods.
Authorities have asked members of the community to report any observations or information that may assist in locating the second suspect. The case remains open, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
The charging of the first suspect and the ongoing manhunt reflect the seriousness with which police are treating the arson, and the incident is being treated as a criminal act rather than a politically motivated act, according to officials.