Crime

Arsonist on the loose? 6 fires in Tacoma, Fife are believed to be connected, police say

Tacoma police and fire officials said Wednesday that six fires set on Sunday are believed to be connected, and they urged anyone with information about the blazes, being investigated as arson, to come forward.

Authorities responded to a structure fire in the 1100 block of Dock Street at roughly 1:30 a.m. Sunday. The structure was destroyed. Three more fires were set along Puyallup Avenue only hours later, according to a joint press release from the Tacoma police and fire departments.

Two additional blazes, this time in Fife, were reported later.

Tacoma firefighters battle a blaze in the 1100 block of Dock Street on Sunday, July 14, 2024.
Tacoma firefighters battle a blaze in the 1100 block of Dock Street on Sunday, July 14, 2024. Tacoma Fire Department Courtesy

“All incidents are believed to be connected, with no reported loss of life,” authorities said.

The Tacoma Police Arson Unit is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the person or people responsible. Members of the public, including business owners, in neighborhoods near where the fires occurred were urged to review surveillance-system footage for suspicious activity.

Anyone with information can contact Tacoma police or leave a tip with Crime Stoppers by using the app or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS.

Shea Johnson
The News Tribune
Shea Johnson is an investigative reporter who joined The News Tribune in 2022. He covers broad subject matters, including civil courts. His work was recognized in 2023 and 2024 by the Society of Professional Journalists Western Washington Chapter. He previously covered city and county governments in Las Vegas and Southern California. He received his bachelor’s degree from Cal State San Bernardino. Support my work with a digital subscription
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