Chelan Hills Fire: Fifth suspect arrested after four others already charged
Sep 25, 2026, 6:27 AM | Updated: 3:16 pm
Multiple photos of suspects being arrested in connection with the deadly Chelan Hills Fire. (Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
A fifth person was arrested in connection with starting the deadly Chelan Hills Fire.
According to KIRO Newsradio, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said it found and arrested the suspect outside of a residence in Pierce County at approximately 10 p.m. Thursday.
Sheriff Tyler Caille confirmed the latest suspect arrested was in the pickup truck.
Just before the fifth arrest, three young adults were formally charged Thursday in connection with the deadly Chelan Hills Fire, bringing the total number of people charged in relation to the fire to four teenagers.
Prosecutors told KIRO 7 that 18-year-old Valentin Tabunscic, 19-year-old Julian Mikityuk, and 19-year-old Mark Okhrimchik were charged with first-degree manslaughter, arson, malicious mischief, and six counts of assault.
Earlier this month, authorities charged 18-year-old Kent man Michael Yakimov with the same crimes.
Investigators said fireworks launched from a moving truck sparked the July 4 fire, which killed a man and multiple dogs, burned nearly 10,000 acres, and destroyed more than 100 homes and buildings. A video of the fireworks being launched can be seen here.
Authorities are still looking for at least one additional outstanding suspect.
KIRO Newsradio has reached out to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for more information on the charging decision.
This is a developing story, check back for updates
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