Boise Police investigate possible arson at abandoned building on the Bench
Police are investigating a human-caused fire that took place at an abandoned building on the corner of Alpine and Latah streets in Boise.
Just after 5 p.m., police and Boise Fire Department crews were called to the scene after reports of a fire, according to Boise Police communications manager Haley Williams. Fire crews were able to extinguish the flames coming from the building, which was not in use and was not connected to power or gas lines.
Upon further investigation, officials found the fire was likely started by a person inside, according to Williams. Police later learned that a young white male was seen running away from the building toward a nearby apartment complex shortly before the fire began. The man was wearing all black, according to Williams. Police did not have a photo of the suspect as of Wednesday afternoon.
Williams said that the fire is being investigated as a possible arson, but the situation was still under investigation. The property is a former car wash/gas station.
Anyone with information on the possible suspect seen fleeing the area is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 208-343-COPS.
This story was originally published March 18, 2020 at 1:21 PM.
