PORT ANGELES – Tragedy was averted Saturday morning in Port Angeles when police officers apprehended a suspect they believe set multiple fires near Albert and 5th Streets. At the same time, dispatchers got another report of a hedge that was burning on the 400 block of 7th Street.
One witness reported two burned-out areas in the tall grass near a trailhead and provided a description of the suspect they saw fleeing the area.
Officers soon encountered 43-year-old Alan Haas nearby on First Street with a large knife in a sheath on his belt, evidence related to the crime of arson on his person and an arrest warrant in his name.
PA Fire crews saw to it that the fires were extinguished, but an arsonist starting fires couldn’t happen at a worse time, with this week’s very dry conditions and a burn ban in place.
Due to a lack of rain and very dry fuels, PA Fire rated the fire danger as a 9 out of 10.
Haas was booked on charges of arson, obstructing an officer, and resisting arrest. The Prosecuting Attorney will review the case and make a final determination as to charges.