By Carlisle Jno Baptiste
ROSEAU, DOMINICA-May 11, 2026-The police have arrested and charged Wilson Joseph of Steber Street with six (6) counts of arson for the May 6, 2026, fire in Roseau that destroyed six buildings and left thousands of dollars in damages.
Police and fire officials say they are continuing investigations into the cause of the fire, but stated that it started from Jeanne’s Cuisine.
Based on a video that has been circulating, showing a man wearing a hoodie and throwing something in the yard of Jeanne’s Cuisine and then fleeing, Joseph and another individual were picked up by the police for questioning.
At a press conference today, Police Chief Lincoln Corbette confirmed the arrest of the two suspects but stated that one was released, while Joseph, who was slapped with six charges of arson, appeared in court, where the charges were read to him.
Arson is an indictable offence to be tried only before a Judge of the High Court and a jury; hence, Joseph was not required to enter a plea.
The prosecution objected to bail, telling the court that they are still “actively investigating the matter, and granting bail would be a problem.”
The Magistrate also inquired of Joseph, who was unrepresented in the matter, if he intends to get a lawyer, and he said, Yes.”
The matter was adjourned to October 26, 2026, and Joseph was denied bail and is now an inmate on remand at the Dominica State Prison (DSP).
