Seattle rental truck lot fire caused by gas theft

A fire at a rental truck lot in the SODO district of Seattle caused more than $150,000 in damage early Friday morning. The blaze, which involved several box trucks, was reportedly triggered by two individuals attempting to steal fuel.

According to the Seattle Police Department, security footage revealed that a vehicle carrying two suspects pulled into the lot near the 3400 block of 1st Avenue South. As the individuals attempted to siphon gas from the trucks, a sudden ignition caused a flash fire that engulfed both the suspects and their getaway vehicle. The vehicle was seen fleeing the scene, traveling southbound on 1st Avenue South.

An initial investigation led to the detention of a 37-year-old man found near the site with a lighter and the smell of smoke. However, after Arson Bomb Squad detectives reviewed the video evidence, the man was released from the King County Jail as investigators determined he was not involved in the incident.

Authorities believe at least one of the fleeing suspects may have sustained heat injuries or burns. The Seattle Fire Department Marshal is assisting the Arson Bomb Squad with the ongoing investigation.