AC Brian Schaeffer #509-625-7002
Friday, July 29, 2016 at 11:42 a.m.
On July 21, 2016, at approximately 5:33 a.m., the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) was dispatched to a reported hazardous materials incident at a residence in the 2200 block of E. First Ave. Upon arrival, firefighters notified the SFD’s Special Investigation Unit (SIU) after discovering an incendiary device was used.
One of the device had made it into the residence and started a fire in an occupied bedroom. Thanks to the quick actions of a nearby Spokane Police officer, who arrived first on scene, the fire was extinguished. SIU investigators discovered approximately six Molotov cocktails were thrown towards the home which was occupied by two adults and four children.
Due to the complexity and potential for federal charges, SFD Investigators contacted the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for assistance. ATF agents immediately responded, identified many intricacies of this case and were able to connect and identify a Florida fugitive as the primary suspect. The multi-agency collaboration allowed investigators to involve US Marshals and a plan was developed to immediately locate and arrest fugitive Cameron Butler (36 year old male).
Butler was arrested safely by US Marshals in Moses Lake, Washington just hours after the request for assistance was made. Butler currently remains in custody.
Any additional information concerning this case should be directed to the ATF.
