Detectives have charged a man over the alleged arson of a Surry Hills restaurant earlier this month.
Emergency services responded to reports of building fire on Crown Street, Surry Hills, about 11am on Thursday 4 July 2019.
Passers-by rescued the male resident from the first floor of the building, but were unable to retrieve his dog, who was later found dead inside the building.
The man was treated for stab wounds to his back and fire-related injuries. He has since been released from hospital.
Detectives from Surry Hills Police Area Command established Strike Force Stockade to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives arrested a 37-year-old man at Surry Hills Police Station about 9.30am today (Friday 26 July 2019).
The Surry Hills man was charged with dishonestly for gain damage property by fire/explosive.
Police will allege in court that the man deliberately set the restaurant on fire and provided false and misleading information to detectives.
It will also be alleged he knowingly left the dog in the building after starting the fire, false representation resulting in police investigation and recklessly beat etc and kill animal.
He has been refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court tomorrow (Saturday 27 June 2019).
