Police arrest two wire theft suspects near Southcenter Boulevard

Tukwila police have arrested two suspects involved in the theft of approximately 300 feet of cable from an open manhole, highlighting a rising trend of wire theft in the region. The arrests occurred on February 21, 2025, after a witness reported seeing the suspects pulling wire from underground on Southcenter Boulevard. When confronted by authorities, the suspects attempted to flee but were apprehended at a nearby bus stop. The female suspect now faces charges of malicious mischief and attempted theft, while the male suspect, already wanted for domestic violence, faces similar charges. This theft not only incurs significant repair costs but also disrupts essential services, including internet and emergency systems.

The Tukwila Police stress the importance of community vigilance, urging residents to report suspicious activities involving utility infrastructure. Officials advise that legitimate workers are easily identifiable by their marked vehicles and safety gear, contrasting with the behavior of potential thieves. Timely reporting has already led to arrests and recovery of stolen materials, underscoring the community's role in combating wire theft.