Arsons in Tacoma spike dramatically, further straining fire resources

TACOMA, Wash. — Arsons in Tacoma are surging, going up nearly 200% from this time last year. The fire department presented new data to Tacoma City Council earlier this week, stating the city saw 82 arsons between June 1 and Aug. 1.

During the same time period in 2020, the city saw 28 arsons.

The latest fire, likely intentionally set, was at a homeless encampment near East 38th and East McKinley Avenue in South Tacoma.

“It is reported and alleged one of the members of the encampment was upset at another one and lit some garbage on fire,” said Alex Wilsie, assistant chief at Tacoma fire.

Neighbors in the area said the flames shot up 15-20 feet in the air, sending up huge plumes of smoke and setting off small explosions inside the camp.

“It’s concerning being so close to lots of dry brush and everything. Our homes are really at risk,” said Lauren Seiling, who lives nearby. “We’re just sitting here with our hoses ready,” she said.

Tacoma fire stated the arsons in the city are putting pressure on resources, which are strained by the extremely dry conditions.

“We’ve had about a 190% increase in arson fires in the city of Tacoma. But up to date this year with our outside fires too, it’s been off the charts,” Wilsie said.

Another recent fire investigators are calling suspicious is the fire at New Hope Baptist Church in July.

“I feel like people have way too much hate in their hearts to be going around doing this. I know they burnt down this place,” said Brittney Patton, who lives nearby. “It’s selfish, you know what I mean? Selfish,” she said.

Now Tacoma police are stepping up patrols in the worst problem areas — in the downtown corridor and near Tacoma Avenue East and 25th Street.

Police said they have arrested two suspects in connection to the arsons and have identified other people of interest.

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