SPOKANE, Wash. — The woman accused of starting multiple fires in Spokane Valley went before a judge for the first time Tuesday.
44-year-old Sara M. Beal faces two counts of 2nd-degree arson. Deputies arrested her on Saturday and accused her of starting more than 15 fires along the Spokane River that day. Spokane Valley Fire Department confirms it responded to multiple spot fires along the Spokane River near Myrtle Point on Saturday.
Deputies say suspect descriptions from witnesses led to the arrest. They say Beal was found with pillow stuffing and matches in her purse along with other potential fire making fuels. Investigators say that’s significant, because pillow stuffing and matches were found where the fires started.
In court, the prosecutor noted that she has a criminal history and has even been accused of arson before. He said she recently plead an arson case down to reckless burning.
Her bond was set at $250k.
The judge ordered her appear for all court dates, and remain in the county. She’s also prohibited from possessing any incendiary devices.
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