Surveillance footage released in Orillia arson investigation involving a cat

Provincial police investigating the death of a cat that was allegedly set on fire in Orillia, Ont., earlier this week released surveillance video of a person of interest in the case.

Police say officers were called to a business parking lot at the Colborne Street East and West Street South intersection around 5 p.m. on Monday for an animal complaint. They arrived to find the animal dead, spurring an arson investigation.

On Thursday, police say they obtained video footage of a person of interest leaving the area about 10 minutes before officers arrived.

The video shows the individual walking on the south side of Colborne Street East, crossing at a crosswalk before cutting through a gas station parking lot.

Moments later, police say the person is seen emerging from behind a building at the location where the incident took place.

The individual is a white male wearing black pants, a black sweater, a black baseball hat, white shoes, and a backpack.

Police urge anyone with information, including dash camera or surveillance video of the incident, to contact the OPP.

They have not disclosed whether they know if the  cat was someone’s pet or a stray.

Provincial police also say the investigation will determine whether arson or animal cruelty charges should be laid.