York Regional Police have made an arrest in connection with two incidents of arson involving tow trucks in Newmarket. The first of these incidents occurred on May 1, 2024, at approximately 1 a.m. Officers were dispatched to a residence located in the Sandford Street and William Roe Boulevard area after receiving reports of a vehicle fire.
Upon arriving at the scene, investigators were able to obtain video surveillance footage, which captured crucial evidence concerning the events leading up to the fire. According to police reports, a male suspect was seen on the footage approaching a tow truck parked in the driveway of the residence. The individual allegedly used an accelerant to ignite the vehicle and subsequently fled the scene in a nearby vehicle that was being operated by a second suspect.
Following a subsequent investigation, police believe that the same two suspects were responsible for another vehicle fire on June 12, 2024, around 4:45 a.m. This incident took place in the vicinity of Eglin and Jefferson streets. During this second event, the two suspects were again seen approaching a tow truck parked at a residence and used an accelerant to set the vehicle ablaze.
As the investigation progressed, authorities managed to identify one of the suspects as Timothy Peraud, a 39-year-old individual with no fixed address. Peraud has been arrested and is now facing charges of arson causing damage to property, along with a breach of probation order. Despite this arrest, the second suspect remains at large and is currently the subject of an arrest warrant.
The second individual, identified as Aaron Fahey, is 26 years old and, like Peraud, does not have a fixed address. Fahey is wanted on two counts of arson stemming from the fires involving the tow trucks. In light of the situation, police are actively encouraging Fahey to surrender voluntarily. They have emphasized the importance of seeking legal advice and have explicitly warned the public against providing any assistance that could help him evade capture.
York Regional Police have reiterated that anyone who aids Fahey in avoiding arrest may also face criminal charges. The police department is taking the matter seriously and continues to pursue leads in locating the second suspect. Their public safety announcement serves as a reminder of the legal consequences that can arise from harboring a fugitive.
As the investigation continues, authorities are dedicated to ensuring that justice is served in this case of arson that has put private property at risk and potentially endangered lives. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any information that could lead to Fahey's capture.
