The Surrey Police Service (SPS) says the Linda Vista Motel was damaged by fire and smoke early Tuesday in a suspected act of arson.

Police say they were called to the motel, located on King George Boulevard near 64 Avenue, shortly after 4:45 a.m.

“Surrey Fire Services (SFS) was already on scene battling the blaze in the lobby, which was started after a man entered the motel’s lobby and allegedly threatened staff before lighting the area on fire,” the SPS said in a news release.

The suspect was gone by the time emergency crews arrived. He is described as a man in his 20s, around 6′ tall with a large build. He was wearing dark clothing. He may have left the area in a vehicle, police say, but a description of the vehicle is unavailable.

No injuries have been reported. Police say they don’t think any motel guests were displaced by the blaze.

The SPS says its Major Crime Unit and arson investigator are working with SFS in the investigation. A motive has not been determined.

Anyone with information is asked to call the SPS non-emergency number at 604-599-0502 and refer to file 26-110091 (SP).