Man charged with arson in Scenic Acres residential fire

Our Arson Unit has charged a man after it is believed he intentionally set fire to a residence earlier this week in the northwest community of Scenic Acres.

On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at approximately 11 a.m., we were called to a residence located in the 100 block of Scenic Way N.W., for reports that a home was on fire.

At the time, two adults were in the home and a nearby neighbour alerted them of the fire, allowing them to safely exit the residence.

Once the fire was extinguished, officers located evidence at the scene which led them to believe the fire was set intentionally. As a result, the home sustained minor property damage and no injuries were reported.

Thanks to tips from witnesses, information and a description in relation to a potential suspect was provided to police. Witnesses reported having seen a man flee the area at the time of the incident.

A suspect was quickly identified, and police located him in a greenspace near Crowchild Trail N.W. and Nose Hill Drive N.W., several hours later. The man was taken into custody following a lengthy police presence at a culvert in the area, where it is believed he was sheltering in an encampment.

As a result, we have charged Jesse Jack ZIELINSKY, 42, of Calgary, with:

·       Arson – disregard to human life

·       Possession of incendiary material

·       Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose

·       Breach of a probation order

·       Breach of a firearms prohibition

ZIELINSKY remains in custody and will next appear in court on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Anyone with information about this, or similar incidents, is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477

TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org

APP: P3 Tips

CA25199567/4183