Police Department

Arrest Made in a Series of Suspicious Fires in Spokane Last Week

Julie Humphreys, Public Safety Communication Manager

Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 3:38 p.m.

Spokane Police Major Crimes detectives have identified a suspect in 3 fires in the Sunset Highway/Hills area of Spokane on 8/3/23. The investigation tracked the suspect from Spokane to Tukwila where SPD, in collaboration with Tukwila Police, arrested her this morning. Vickie L. Smith (53) was booked into the King County Jail where she awaits extradition to Spokane. She is charged with 3 counts of 1st Degree Arson in relation to the fires which started within a short time of each other – taxing firefighters and other emergency responders and threatening homes and businesses in the area. The fires prompted Level 3 evacuations in multiple areas.

The investigation also revealed Smith is suspected to be responsible for graffiti threats to burn Spokane that were written on numerous pillars and structures in the downtown area. Additional charges related to the graffiti are pending. Smith is a convicted felon.

SPD appreciates the witnesses who came forward to assist in this investigation. For questions regarding the fires, contact Spokane Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer.

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