Transient accused of starting fire in shed by Sunnyside Museum – Yakima Herald-Republic

A 28-year-old transient is accused of setting a fire inside a shed at the Sunnyside Museum.

Police responding to a fire behind the museum, 704 S. Fourth St. around 2:30 p.m. Saturday spotted the suspect leaving the area on a bike. The fire was inside a wooden shed and posed a danger to nearby buildings and antique machinery outside the museum, according to a probable cause affidavit.

Police said the man has been known to start fires, according to the affidavit, and was arrested on suspicion of first-degree reckless burning.

During a Monday preliminary appearance hearing in Yakima County Superior Court, Deputy Yakima County Prosecuting Attorney Bret Roberts asked for $5,000 bail, noting the man had no meaningful ties to the community and has warrants out of Lake Forest and Everett.

Defense attorney Melissa Derry argued for release on pretrial release, noting that he has family members in the Sunnyside area and most of his misdemeanor criminal history has involved dismissed charges.

Yakima County Superior Court Judge Sonia Rodriguez True set bail at $2,500, concerned that he might not appear at future court hearings.

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Transient accused of starting fire in shed by Sunnyside Museum - Yakima Herald-Republic