Police Department

SPD makes arrest in string of arsons on Spokane’s South Hill

Julie Humphreys Public Safety Communication Manager

Friday, July 26, 2024 at 3:15 p.m.

On 7/26/24, just after midnight, Spokane Police arrested a juvenile in relation to one of a number of fires on the South Hill. A detective assigned to the case, along with a patrol officer familiar with the area, conducted some good old fashioned police work to identify a teenager who matched the description of the suspect in a fire at a business in the 4500 block of S. Regal St. on 7/19/24.  Firefighters with the Spokane Fire Department quickly put the fire out, determined it was intentionally set, and have worked with SPD investigators since to find the person/s responsible for that fire and several others in the area.

Early this morning the SPD detective and officer conducted surveillance in the area and observed the male suspect hanging around another business in the area with a flashlight. He eventually left and went to a nearby residence. Officers made contact with him, detained him and transported him to his residence where they spoke with the teens father.  Probable cause was established to arrest the 13-year old for 2^nd Degree Arson and 1^st Degree Malicious Mischief. Additional charges may be forthcoming. The teenager was booked into the Spokane County Juvenile Detention Center.

The investigation into this fire and a number of others on the South Hill continues. Police have also identified an 11-year old in relation to some fires and have probable cause to arrest him. They are working with juvenile prosecutors to find a good resolution due to the boys age and other factors. Additional suspects are also being looked at as police investigate the correlation between the fires and also between the persons who set them.

All of the arson fires on the South Hill had the potential to do extensive damage in the hot, dry weather conditions that exist. The fire at the business – a car wash – resulted in approximately $160,000 damage. Police and fire investigators have prioritized these fires and are committed to identifying other potential suspects and putting an end to their dangerous and malicious acts.

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