Executive Summary
- Incident: Suspected arson occurred at the Masonic Lodge in Chinook early Christmas morning.
- Evidence: Surveillance video shows a suspect in dark clothing breaking a window and starting the fire, though identification is difficult.
- Damage: The building sustained extensive smoke damage and broken windows but no structural failure.
- Public Appeal: A $500 reward is offered for information leading to an arrest; business owners are asked to check security feeds.
Authorities in Chinook, Montana, are soliciting public assistance in an ongoing arson investigation following an incident at the local Masonic Lodge early Christmas morning. Chinook Police Chief Elmer Zarn confirmed to New Media Broadcasters that law enforcement officials are reviewing video evidence obtained from the Sheriff’s Office which depicts the suspect committing the offense.
According to Chief Zarn, the footage captures an individual breaking a window and initiating the fire. However, the Chief noted that due to the distance of the camera and the nighttime conditions, a positive identification of the suspect is not currently possible based solely on this video. Investigators described the suspect as wearing dark clothing and potentially carrying a backpack.
Law enforcement officials have formally requested that local business owners review their security camera footage for any activity that might assist in identifying the perpetrator. In addition to the video evidence, police have collected physical evidence from the scene. The Masonic Lodge reportedly sustained a broken window, damaged carpeting, and extensive smoke damage, though officials indicated there is no apparent structural damage to the building. A $500 reward is being offered by the Lodge for information leading to an arrest.
Investigative Outlook
The investigation currently hinges on the triangulation of surveillance data and community tips, given the limitations of the primary video evidence. The specific request for business owners to review footage suggests a strategy focused on tracking the suspect’s ingress and egress routes to establish a clearer timeline or identification. While the physical damage was limited to non-structural elements, the intentional nature of the act categorizes this as a serious public safety concern. Individuals with information are urged to contact Deputy Brady Pleninger at the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office. It is important to note that any individuals suspected or charged in connection with this incident are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
