As 4th approaches, massive 2013 marina fire remains unsolved

SEATTLE, Wash. — The Fourth of July is just a few days away and this year it will mark the first anniversary of a massive marina fire on Lake Union.

Fourteen boats at Lake Union Skylaunch Marina were destroyed in the 2013 fire that unfolded live on KIRO 7 as we broadcast the professional fireworks display nearby.

Total damage was estimated at $1.5 million and was blamed on an errant firework set off illegally.

"Our detectives certainly did a thorough investigation of that incident," said Seattle police Detective Drew Fowler.

But, the case is unsolved and now inactive.

Fowler said SPD will re-open the case if new information surfaces.

In the meantime, police are gearing up for another Fourth of July.

Fowler said "the department will have all hands on deck" although no special patrols are planned in the area around the marina.

Fireworks are illegal in the city, though officers do not respond to calls about fireworks alone.

"The primary concern is life safety. Chasing down every single kid with a firecracker is not our primary function," Fowler said.

KIRO