FRIDAY HARBOR, Wash. — The man suspected of setting a fire that tore through a block of businesses in Friday Harbor earlier this month was arrested Saturday, according to the San Juan County Sheriff's Office (SJCSO).
The suspect, identified as Dwight C. Henline, was taken into custody around 4:30 p.m. Saturday by Island County deputies and transported to the Island County Jail, according to a release from the SJCSO.
The sheriff's office previously said Henline was last seen in the Langley area and was believed to be "armed and dangerous."
The fire started in the early morning on April 7 and originated from a deck behind Crystal Seas Kayaking. The fire spread to businesses on the block and ultimately destroyed four businesses.
Herb's Tavern, Crows Nest Coffee Shoppe, Crystal Seas Kayaks and the Windermere Real Estate were all destroyed in the fire. No injuries were reported.
A National Response Team from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives determined the fire to be arson.
The town of Friday Harbor posted on Facebook that it was "working with building owners to ensure the safe reopening of structures.”
The Friday Harbor community is grappling with the loss of what many have called the "heart" of downtown Friday Harbor.
Johannes Krieger, the owner of Crystal Seas Kayaking, said they are fully operational despite the loss of their office.
“Realizing that your building is burning, that was a significant shock," said Krieger, as he recalled the fire that broke out that morning.
Krieger said he was somewhat relieved to find out the fire was arson and it had not accidentally started from around his business.
"That was a relief to some degree; another worry at the same time," said Krieger.
Krieger started the kayaking company in 1993 and plans to rebuild at the same location. Kayaking tours are open and are still being scheduled. Their focus now is preparing for the busy summer season.
"At this point, we're very thankful that nobody was hurt, and it's been really amazing to see how the community bonds together," said Krieger.
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