A 35-year-old man was arrested after a van caught fire and exploded outside an Everett police precinct.
The incident happened around 9:15 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, at the Everett Police Department’s South Precinct on SE Everett Mall Way, according to police.
Investigators said a white van was driven into the precinct parking lot shortly before officers nearby heard an explosion coming from the vehicle. The van was then engulfed in flames.
Authorities said the driver had exited the vehicle before officers took him into custody at the scene.
The Everett Fire Department responded to extinguish the fire.
Following an initial investigation, the suspect was booked into the Snohomish County Jail on suspicion of first-degree arson.
Investigators said the motive behind the incident remains unknown.
Police also said the explosion does not currently appear to have been caused by an explosive device. Investigators believe the fire created enough pressure inside the van to rupture the vehicle’s seals, producing the blast-like sound. No injuries were reported.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Everett Police Department Tip Line at 425-257-8450 or Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound at 1-800-222-TIPS.
Watch video of the incident below:
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