Homeless Arson Suspect in Court
Thursday morning Arthur Arakelov faced a judge for the first time. He’s accused of torching dozens of boats in Lake Union last month and causing millions of dollars in damage. He pleaded not guilty. Meanwhile, #Seattle‘s homeless community remains in shock over these allegations and supporters say this was likely an accident. He’s being held on $100K bail and is due in court again later this month. @mayorofseattle @D5Juarez @kcexec @seattlecouncil @KCCouncil @GovInslee @CMSaraNelson @CMTMosqueda @seattlePD @SeattleFire
More from SPD Body Cam
It appears Arakelov was cooperative and wanted to get out of the cold. He was treated on site and taken to the hospital. #Seattle
Surveillance Video
Look at the orange glow. Authorities say that’s Arthur Arakelov running away and hiding in a vessel moments after the fire started at the dry boat rack in Lake Union. Still unclear what was used to ignite this fire. Arakelov’s advocates say this was accidental. #Seattle
Arakelov’s Former Encampment
Homeless advocates say he’s been through multiple sweeps in #Seattle. This is where cable giant Comcast allegedly used loud music to drive away campers.