Local

Looters target Northgate apartment building damaged by fire

Residents of an apartment building that caught fire in North Seattle say they're being victimized all over again now that looters are stealing their belongings.

The Park Meridian Apartments in Northgate caught fire Aug. 5. The fire destroyed one building, leaving about 70 people homeless.

There is a fence around the burned building but residents say looters are getting inside. People who lived in the apartments also say they've been struggling to reach property management and the property's owner, to get permission to access the building.

"It's just crazy to me that after dealing with a fire, and you know, having your entire life ripped out from under you, you can't even go back and try and salvage anything. It's heartbreaking," said Kristen Bass, who lived in the apartment building.

Bass wants to get items that belonged to her sister who died 15 years ago.

"I know there are things of monetary value, but more importantly things of sentimental value to myself, Kirsten Bass said.

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There's a sign on the door saying no one can get inside without the permission of the owner and an escort.

Residents say the owner isn't communicating with them and they're frustrated. They want their belongings, especially items with sentimental value that can't be replaced.

KIRO 7 talked to the property owner, Mark Vanderveen, who said he can't let residents inside. He said it's not just because of the fire damage but because there is asbestos in the building.

He says he had the building tested.

Vanderveen said he's heard about the looting concern and is adding security.

He plans to have a security guard at the apartment complex Wednesday night.