Idaho Police Need Help Identifying Suspect After Two Suspicious Fires
Police in northern Idaho are asking for the public’s help identifying a man spotted near the scene of two fires in Coeur d’Alene.
Crime Stoppers of Idaho reached out, asking us to help spread the word across the state as investigators search for information that could lead them to a suspect.
The fires happened just minutes apart during the early morning hours of Saturday, August 15.
What Happened During the Coeur d’Alene Fires?
According to the Coeur d’Alene Police Department, firefighters and police responded at approximately 3:40 a.m. to a reported fire in an undeveloped wooded area in the 6500 block of N. Mineral Drive, west of Highway 95.
That fire was determined to have been intentionally set and was ruled arson.
Then, less than 20 minutes later, another fire was reported at approximately 4 a.m. in the 7600 block of N. Wheatfield Drive, less than a mile away.
A home was engulfed in flames, and the fire also spread to and damaged a neighboring home.
Because of the suspicious circumstances surrounding the Wheatfield Drive fire, Coeur d’Alene Police detectives and the Fire Marshal’s Office were called in to investigate.
What Does the Arson Suspect Look Like?
Police say security cameras captured a man riding a bicycle in the area of the fires.
Investigators describe the person as a taller male wearing a long-sleeve top and pants, a backpack and a headlamp while riding a bicycle.
Police are asking anyone who may have surveillance video or information connected to the fires to come forward.
Anyone who recognizes the person or believes they may have information should not approach him and should contact authorities.
How Can You Submit a Tip to Crime Stoppers of Idaho?
Tips can be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers of Idaho by calling 208-343-COPS (2677) or through the Crime Stoppers website at 343COPS.com.
Tipsters can remain completely anonymous and information leading to an arrest may also qualify for a cash reward of up to $1,000.
Even though this investigation is taking place hundreds of miles from the Treasure Valley, sharing the suspect’s description or surveillance images could help put them in front of someone who recognizes him.
Sometimes that’s all it takes.
Idaho's 9 Most Wanted
Gallery Credit: Cory Mikhals
