SEATTLE — Firefighters responded to a series of four five set fires that occurred in the Central District beginning around 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 8 and continuing through 8:45 p.m. All of the fires happened at the front or rear entrances of the homes, and involved nearby combustible materials such as chopped firewood, patio furniture, trash bins and propane grills. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Seattle Police were able to arrest the suspect at the scene of the fourth fifth set fire.
Fire investigators ruled all five fires as intentionally set. The Seattle Police Department is conducting a follow-up investigation under the suspicion of arson.
We thank the residents within the impacted areas for notifying us and law enforcement of the whereabouts of the suspect. Thank you to the Seattle Police Department for apprehending the suspect in the midst of our crews extinguishing the fires. Both of your quick efforts helped prevent more fires.
View an interactive map of the fire locations online, which includes a brief description of what caught fire.
Below is a list of the locations of where the fires occurred:
- 600 block of 37th Ave.
- 3400 block of E. Terrace St. (added 8/9/2022)
- 500 block of 31st Ave. (two residences on this block)
- 500 block of 30th Ave.
In light of these recent fires, here are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the chance of an arson fire at your home or business:
OUTSIDE:
- Secure home, garage areas and businesses by locking doors and windows.
- Clean up wastepaper, grasses, weeds, litter, or anything that can burn from around buildings. Clear carport areas of all combustibles.
- Locate dumpsters, recycle bins and yard waste containers at least five feet away from walls and roof eave lines. If possible, keep them in a secured area. Do not allow them to become overfilled.
- Place locks on commercial dumpsters or keep in secured area. Locks may be available through your contracted service provider. Use only metal or metal-lined receptacles.
- Residential customers can call Seattle Public Utilities at (206) 684-7665 to arrange for delivery and installation of locks for recycling and garbage containers.
- Trim shrubbery from doors and windows to improve visibility.
- Install motion-sensor exterior lights or consider leaving lights on.
- Secure gas grills or disconnect the propane tank and place it inside your garage.
INSIDE:
- For businesses, check fire and life safety systems, including fire extinguishers, to ensure they are working and in compliance with codes.
- For homeowners, test smoke alarms to ensure they are working.
- Develop and practice a fire escape plan. Be sure it includes knowing all the exits and a meeting place.
- If you have a fire extinguisher, know where it is located and how to use it.
- Keep exit ways clear of items which could slow evacuation efforts.