Stay informed about crime news and updates in Seattle, WA.
Natasha Marie Odell, a 38-year-old woman from Texas, has been indicted on three felony charges related to the arson of the Seattle Laestadian Lutheran Church in Snohomish County, which was destroyed in August 2023. Evidence linking her to the crime includes cell phone records and surveillance footage. If convicted, she faces significant prison time.
Seattle's Capitol Hill was briefly evacuated after a suspicious backpack was found outside the East Precinct of the Seattle Police Department. The bomb squad investigated and confirmed the contents were non-hazardous, leading to an 'all clear' signal with no injuries reported.
Shoreline Police used drone technology to safely apprehend a suspect in a mental health crisis at a local 7-Eleven, demonstrating innovative law enforcement strategies that prioritize safety and efficiency.
An attempted burglary at Fall City Firearms on December 6 led to a high-speed police chase, resulting in the capture of five suspects aged 13 to 21. The incident raises concerns about youth crime in the area, but fortunately, no property was damaged.
The Olympia Police Department successfully located two missing 11-year-old boys who had run away, highlighting the importance of community involvement in ensuring child safety.
John Butz, a teacher at Northshore School District, was arrested for attempted child rape during a sting operation by Redmond Police and the Internet Crimes Against Children task force. The district confirmed that the arrest is not related to any misconduct involving students and has placed Butz on administrative leave while the investigation continues.
A construction sign in Seattle has sparked controversy by displaying messages like 'one less CEO' following the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare's CEO, Brian Thompson. Seen during the morning commute on State Route 99, the sign reflects troubling public support for the suspected shooter, raising concerns about societal attitudes towards violence.
A McDonald's employee in Pennsylvania, who called 911 during the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is eligible for a reward. However, the payout process may take time due to procedural requirements. The NYPD received over 400 tips during the investigation, with about 30 being useful, leading to the arrest of the suspect.
The Coast Guard has suspended its search for five crew members missing after their fishing boat, Wind Walker, capsized near Couverden Point, Alaska. Two bodies have been recovered, believed to be connected to the incident, which occurred during severe weather conditions.
An assistant principal at Centennial Middle School in Snohomish County has been placed on administrative leave after being arrested on suspicion of first-degree child rape. The allegations are unrelated to his role at the school, and he has no prior criminal record. The Snohomish County Prosecutor's Office is currently reviewing the case.