Ofc. Stephen Anderson, PIO
Monday, May 10, 2021 at 12:45 p.m.
Alert citizens help SPD quickly arrest arsonist near TJ Meenach Bridge
On May 8, 2021 at approximately 4:20pm, SPD received multiple calls for service regarding a male setting fire to a LIME bicycle parked on the grass just north of the TJ Meenach Bridge. The fire spread to the surrounding lawn, causing a burn radius of approximately 20 feet.
The male continued on foot toward the bridge, stopping periodically to set fire to multiple trees and other brush. Due to alert citizens in the area, SPD swing shift officers were able to locate and quickly apprehend the suspect.
The suspect was identified as Mitchell Sander (26 y/o). Sander was arrested for 3 counts of Second Degree Arson.
SPD appreciates the assistance of the community in apprehending Sander. Due to high winds this afternoon, the multiple fires could have rapidly spread causing widespread damage to the surrounding area, had he not been apprehended immediately.
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