Suspect in Pullman apartment complex blaze pleads insanity

Elijah Reagan, 40, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity in Whitman County Superior Court regarding a fire that severely damaged an apartment complex in Pullman. The blaze displaced all residents of the 18-unit building, prompting local authorities to label it “dangerous and unsafe to occupy. ” Reagan faces life in prison if convicted of felony first-degree arson, along with charges of malicious damage and eluding police. Investigators allege he set the fire using fireworks and subsequently led authorities on a chase down U. S.

Highway 195. The pursuit concluded with an armed standoff, and Reagan surrendered after several hours. Court documents indicate he was under the influence of methamphetamines during the incident and reportedly admitted to the act in a call to his estranged wife. Reagan is currently held on a $250,000 cash bond while he undergoes a mental health evaluation. His next court appearance is scheduled for next month.