PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE – A domestic situation in an apartment complex resulted in attempted murder charges after a man started a fire in an attempt to kill a 41 year-old woman.

RCMP arrived to a possible domestic dispute on February 15 at 1:25 am. and found an apartment filled with black smoke. He heard screaming coming from inside so he ran inside and helped the woman leave the building. He ran inside a second time and found a 38 year-old man who refused to leave. The officer had to physically remove him from the apartment.

Portage la Prairie Fire Department, Emergency Services and RCMP officers assisted with evacuating the rest of the complex.

Officers believe that the man and woman were in the apartment when he started a fire. She tried to leave but was held against her will and suffered injuries as a result of the fire.

The female victim is currently being treated in hospital.

The 38-year-old male suspect, from Portage la Prairie, was arrested and charged with Attempted Murder, Arson-Disregard for Human Life and Forcible Confinement.

Portage la Prairie RCMP continue to investigate.