Seattle begins West Seattle Bridge lighting repairs after copper theft

Seattle City Light has begun repairs to restore lighting on the West Seattle Bridge following extensive copper wire theft. The project, which includes installing enhanced anti-theft protections such as welded access doors and tamper-proof lids, is expected to be completed by October 15. The repairs may cause occasional lane closures.

A felony bench warrant has been issued for the arrest of 47-year-old Gregory Wayne Galitzeck. Galitzeck was arrested on June 27 after allegedly impersonating a Seattle City Light employee to steal copper wire from the bridge. While the stolen wire was valued at approximately $1,000, the total damage to taxpayers is estimated at $100,000.

Galitzeck faces charges of first-degree malicious mischief, first-degree criminal impersonation, and third-degree theft. He failed to appear in court, prompting Judge Nelson Lee to sign the warrant. Galitzeck has a significant criminal history, including previous convictions for burglary, escape, and theft, along with 16 prior arrest warrants since 2008.