Police arrest suspect following series of dumpster fires

WINDSOR POLICE NEWS RELEASE

Case #: 26-899

Police arrest suspect following series of dumpster fires

The Windsor Police Service has arrested a suspect in connection with a series of dumpster arsons.

Shortly before 7:30 p.m. on January 3, 2026, officers responded to a report of a suspect setting fires to waste receptacles in the 900 block of Ottawa Street. Upon arrival, officers observed a City of Windsor waste bin on fire. An officer helped the complainant in extinguishing the flames.

Through further investigation, officers learned the same suspect had set multiple fires to waste receptacles located between gas pumps at a nearby business before setting fire to a City of Windsor waste bin at the northeast corner of Ottawa Street and Parent Avenue.

Approximately seven minutes after being dispatched, officers located and arrested the suspect.

Matthew James Godden, 37, has been charged with arson causing property damage (x3) and failure to comply with a probation order.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Windsor Police Arson Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4330. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Windsor and Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.