Hillhurst arson may be linked to threatening letters to nearby residents, police say

Calgary police say they are looking into an arson in the northwest community of Hillhurstearly Tuesday that may be connected to threatening letters sent to nearby residents.

Investigators say they were called to a home in the 1700 block of Eighth Avenue N.W.around3:10 a.m. for reports of a fire.

The Calgary Fire Department put outthe flames shortly after arriving, police say.Therewere no injuries reportedanddamage to the home was minor. However, investigators say the fire was intentionally set.

Officers say several residents who livenearby came forward to report they received threatening letters demanding bitcoin transfers. The letters had been left on their front steps.

Investigators say they're looking forinformation and video of suspicious people or vehicles in the area on Tuesday from 1 a.m. to 4:30 a.m.

Police are also asking for people who live in Hillhurst, Hounsfield Heights/Briar Hill and West Hillhurst to come forward with security camera footage that may help identify the person or people responsible.

Calgary police noted similar arsons happened in Edmonton in September and October, and investigators are looking into whether they are connected with the arson in Hillhurst.