RCMP charge Eastern Passage man with arson and other offences

July 24, 2026 - Eastern Passage, Nova Scotia
From: Nova Scotia RCMP

Content

RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has charged a man with seven offences, including arson, in relation to multiple incidents in Eastern Passage. 

On July 14, at approximately 6 p.m., officers responded to a disturbance on Blockade Circle involving an agitated man armed with a hammer. Officers learned the man had threatened neighbours, damaged property and threatened to burn down his house.  He was arrested at the scene, transported to hospital for assessment, and later released. 

On July 18, at approximately 7:55 p.m., officers received a report that a man walking a dog near Cow Bay Rd. and Garrison Dr. was harming the animal. As officers were unable to attend immediately, the matter was referred to Halifax Animal Services and the SPCA.   

On July 21, at approximately 9:10 p.m., officers responded to a disturbance and property damage complaint at a home in the 0-100 block of Blockade Circle.  They learned an internet cable connected to a neighbouring residence had been ripped away and the person responsible had fled on foot. 

While on scene, officers heard a fire alarm and observed smoke coming from a nearby home.  Officers entered the property and used a fire extinguisher to suppress a basement fire until Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency arrived.  Evidence gathered through a search warrant determined the fire had been intentionally set. 

Later on July 21, Jason Andrew Whelan, 43, of Eastern Passage, was safely arrested. He’s been charged with:

• Arson
• Uttering Threats to Burn Real or Personal Property
• Possession of a Weapon Dangerous to the Public
• Resist Arrest
• Causing Unnecessary Suffering to an Animal
• Mischief (two counts)

Whelan appeared in Dartmouth Provincial Court on July 24 and was released on conditions.  His next court appearance is scheduled for October 2.

File #: 26-109718, 26-111990, 26-113717

Contacts