Fireworks Cause Explosion in Pullman Apartment Fire; Arrest Made
UPDATE: A dramatic apartment fire in Pullman, Washington, on July 30, 2023, is now linked to a fireworks explosion, according to court documents revealed during a hearing for 40-year-old Elijah Reagan on August 1, 2023. This incident has left residents evacuated and prompted an urgent response from local authorities.
Officials allege that Reagan ignited fireworks from a mortar inside his apartment on the 100 block of NW Larry Street, creating a devastating explosion that blew a hole through the ceiling and ignited several surrounding units. The fire has since damaged at least seven apartments. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported among the residents.
Law enforcement discovered a troubling array of items in Reagan’s apartment, including a TNT dynamite blasting machine plunger box. Following the fire, Reagan was arrested late Sunday night after a tense armed standoff on Lewiston Hill. Authorities had pursued him after locating his vehicle on U.S. Highway 195, where he drove erratically at speeds exceeding 60 miles per hour with a deflated tire.
The pursuit concluded when officers deployed spike strips at the junction of U.S. Highways 195 and 95. During the standoff, Reagan reportedly discharged a shotgun but eventually surrendered after several hours. He was taken to the Nez Perce County Jail and later transferred to the Whitman County Jail.
Authorities suspect Reagan was under the influence of methamphetamine, as evidence from the scene included lighter fluid, bottle rockets, and fire logs found in his vehicle. Disturbingly, Reagan allegedly confessed to bombing his apartment during a phone call with his estranged wife, who informed officers about his substance abuse.
In the aftermath of the fire, all residents from the 18-unit apartment complex have been evacuated. They will not be allowed to return until a building inspector assesses the structural integrity. In response to the crisis, an American Red Cross shelter has been established at the Pullman Senior Center to assist displaced residents.
Reagan has been charged with first-degree arson and is currently held on a $250,000 cash bond or $25,000 cash bail. He is scheduled to be arraigned in court on Friday morning. This incident has raised significant concerns about public safety and the dangers of fireworks misuse, sparking discussions within the community.
As the investigation continues, residents and authorities alike are on high alert, emphasizing the need for awareness surrounding fire safety, especially during the fireworks season. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
