On Saturday at approximately 6:30 a.m., the Hoquiam Fire Department and Hoquiam Police Department were dispatched to a structure fire at an apartment in the 2800 block of Simpson Avenue. All four apartments in the complex were occupied at the time of the fire.

Following a joint investigation between Hoquiam Fire Department and Hoquiam Police Department, it was determined the fire had been intentionally set. Statements provided by neighbors and other witnesses helped investigators develop a suspect description and direction of travel.

“Their willingness to come forward with timely information played a key role in the investigation, and we’re grateful for the continued support from our community,” said Detective Sergeant J. Spaur. “We’d also like to acknowledge HFD for their quick response and support at the scene even after the fire was knocked down.”

On Saturday afternoon, the suspect, a 39-year-old Hoquiam man, was located and taken into custody by Officer Jarrod Figg and Officer Lauren Atwood. Officer Atwood was the primary arson investigator in this case and was instrumental in the apprehension of the suspect, processing of the scene and interviewing the suspect.

The suspect was charged with first-degree arson and booked at the Grays Harbor County Jail.