New Details in Pullman arrest on man who started apartment fire

PULLMAN, WA – A Washington man who set off a firework in his apartment, sparking a fire that displaced dozens of residents, peacefully surrendered to police after officers agreed to deliver him a Dairy Queen meal, authorities said.

Elijah Reagan, 40, led law enforcement on a cross-border chase from Washington into Idaho on the night of Oct. 12, ending in a standoff near U.S. Highway 95 and State Route 195. Police said Reagan, armed with a shotgun, held the weapon to his chest and chin during the hours-long standoff, at one point accidentally firing a shot through the driver’s side window of his vehicle.

During negotiations, Reagan requested a Dairy Queen hamburger, fries, and a Blizzard. Officers delivered the meal using a tactical robot, leaving the Blizzard behind. Shortly after receiving the food, Reagan surrendered without incident.

The incident began earlier that evening on Northwest Larry Street in Pullman, when Reagan ignited a firework inside his apartment. The explosion blew a hole through the roof and ignited a fire that caused significant damage to the building, forcing dozens of residents to evacuate.

Reagan is being held at the Whitman County Jail on charges of first-degree arson and attempting to elude law enforcement. His arraignment is scheduled for Oct. 24.

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