Woman accused of starting fire at housing site in Olympia, jail and court records show

A 32-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of first-degree arson late Wednesday after she allegedly set fire to her room at Sandy’s Flats, Thurston County jail and court records show.

About 5:15 p.m., Olympia police and fire crews were dispatched to the 900 block of Capitol Way after reports of smoke at the 26-unit supportive housing project downtown.

Capitol Way between Eighth Avenue and 10th Avenue was blocked off as firefighters responded to the incident. Firefighters also could be seen climbing into the building’s second story where smoke was emerging from the structure.

A witness at the scene told police he saw the woman leave the room, followed immediately by smoke, according to the court records.

“He immediately responded to the room, opened the door and saw the room filled with smoke, consistent with a fire,” the court records read. “He confirmed that he did not see flames but emptied two fire extinguishers into the room.”

Another witness said she heard the woman yelling before the 32-year-old exited the room, then that same witness saw her cross the parking area with a lighter.

Based on witness statements, “it is reasonable to believe that the woman knew there was a fire in the room when she left,” the court records read.

Carrying an open lighter also “is further evidence that the woman likely lit the fire in the room prior to leaving,” the court records read.

The 32-year-old woman was taken into custody about 5:45 p.m. in the area of Fourth Avenue and Plum Street, jail records show.

This story was originally published June 21, 2025 at 5:00 AM.