Police One arrest after man busts into PikePine cafe with scooter, sets fire

Police arrested a man early Thursday morning in Seattle's Pike/Pine neighborhood after a series of small arson fires, including one inside a cafe. The incidents began around 3:15 AM when witnesses reported a large fire in a parking lot, where the suspect was seen fanning flames with a blanket. Shortly after, he allegedly smashed a cafe window and ignited oily cardboard inside, threatening local businesses. Officers located the suspect several blocks away, where he was reportedly in the act of burning his clothes from the previous incidents. Damage assessments are still underway, with local businesses like Via Tribunali pizza and Shikorina Pastries potentially impacted.

The Seattle Police Department is investigating the full extent of the damage and the motive behind these acts. Community leaders express concern over the safety of the neighborhood following these events. Increased police presence may be necessary to ensure public safety and to deter future incidents of this nature.