Christchurch fire: Man, 59, charged with arson after Worcester St blaze

A man has been arrested after a fire in central Christchurch this morning.

Police were called to the scene on Worcester St about 5.10am.

Detective Sergeant Luke Vaughan confirmed a 59-year-old man was arrested at the scene.

He will remain in custody this weekend and is due to appear in Christchurch District Court on Monday.

He is facing charges of being unlawfully in a building and of arson.

“Police remain at the scene, alongside Fire and Emergency NZ, while a thorough scene examination is conducted,” Vaughan said.

“If anyone saw anything unusual or suspicious this morning around the time of the fire, who has not yet spoken to police, please get in touch via 105, referencing file number 260103/3422.”