Executive Summary
- Moses Lake Police are investigating a suspicious fire reported on December 22 in the 400 block of East Nelson Road.
- Witnesses observed two individuals fleeing the scene and successfully extinguished the fire before emergency crews arrived.
- Investigators have secured physical evidence from the site but have not yet identified specific suspects.
- The public is urged to contact Detective Guerrero with information regarding case #25ML17352.
The Moses Lake Police Department (MLPD) has launched an investigation into a suspected arson incident that occurred at a residential duplex on the evening of December 22. Authorities are currently seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two individuals who were observed fleeing the scene shortly after the fire began.
According to police reports, the incident took place around 9:45 p.m. in the 400 block of East Nelson Road. Witnesses stated that they saw two unidentified people running from the location just as the fire broke out. Although fire crews were dispatched, the witnesses were able to suppress the flames before firefighters arrived, effectively limiting the damage to the building’s exterior and preventing a larger structural loss.
Investigators noted that the swift actions of the witnesses allowed them to secure evidence of the possible arson at the site. As of the most recent update, no specific suspects have been identified. The Moses Lake Police Department is requesting that anyone with information regarding the incident, the individuals seen leaving the area, or relevant surveillance footage contact Detective Guerrero and reference case #25ML17352. Anonymous tips are also accepted.
Investigative Outlook
The preservation of the scene by witnesses provides law enforcement with a significant advantage in collecting forensic evidence, which is often destroyed in fully developed structural fires. While the investigation is currently focused on identifying the two individuals seen fleeing the residence, authorities emphasize that the inquiry is in its preliminary stages. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, and formal identification of suspects remains pending.
