FREDERIC SERRE
The 1019 Report

Nearly three months after a devastating arson attack shut down the sprawling Walmart department store in Vaudreuil-Dorion, company officials say they are excited to welcome back employees and customers, adding that they have been working hard the past few weeks, filling shelves and getting the store ready for its May 16 reopening.

“Given the condition of the store and the extensive remediation required, we took the opportunity to move up a planned renovation,” said Walmart spokesperson Felicia Fefer. “Customers will be delighted to be welcomed back to a store with new signage, an expanded grocery department and more improvements for a better shopping experience.”

While the store on De la Gare Blvd. readies for the opening, Hudson resident Luciano Minisini-Burke is awaiting trial on charges of setting the fire that gutted a large section of the store on Feb. 20. On that morning, shortly after opening its doors, shoppers and employees were evacuated after flames broke out near the barbecue section of the Walmart. No injuries were reported, although one person was treated for smoke inhalation.

Police arrested Burke, 18, the same day. He appeared before a Quebec Court judge on Feb. 27, where he was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation, which determined that he was fit to stand trial. He now faces charges of committing arson and causing damage by fire to a property knowing that individuals were in the business, and causing damage by fire.

Fefer said damage to the store was “significant,” and while the Walmart has been closed since the fire, no employees were laid off.

“We’ve been offering (employees) salary continuance or the opportunity to work in nearby stores,” she said. “Many have returned to the store to help with the grand opening.”