Suspect in custody after deliberately set fire causes damage to building housing the Downtown Police Precinct

Spokane police arrested Johnathon L. Stapleton, 28, for 1st Degree Arson after he allegedly set a fire outside the Downtown Police Precinct on July 14, 2025. Officers responded to a fire alarm and found smoke coming from a metal roll-up door in the basement area. Upon investigation, they discovered a bin of combustible materials ablaze in the alley, necessitating fire department intervention to extinguish the flames. Security footage revealed Stapleton as a person of interest, and he was taken into custody shortly after 9 AM.

The fire caused damage to the precinct building, raising concerns about safety in the downtown area. Spokane police encourage citizens to report non-emergency incidents via local services, emphasizing community involvement in public safety. This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting in preventing similar occurrences. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation as investigations proceed.