The Port Moody Police Department says it is now investigating a fire that seriously damaged several businesses this week as an arson.

Just after 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday, fire and police crews were called to a blaze at a strip mall on St. Johns Street close to Moody Street. The fire was knocked down quickly, says Const. Sam Zacharias.

Related: • Port Moody fire crews knock down blaze at business lot

“The fire has now been deemed an arson and the Port Moody Police Major Crime Section has assumed conduct of the investigation,” Zacharias said.

“However, the intended target of the arson is not cooperating with investigators at this time.”

The damaged businesses include a barber shop, a jewelry store, and a liquor store. It isn’t clear where the fire started.

No injuries have been reporte

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