Phoenix/ Crime & Emergencies
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Published on April 05, 2024
Prescott Valley Police Seek Suspect Suspected in High School Vandalism and Multi-Million Dollar Apartment FireSource: Facebook/Prescott Valley Police Department

Prescott Valley police have launched a manhunt for a suspect linked to a series of crimes, including significant damage to a local high school and a fire that engulfed an apartment complex under construction. The first break-in at Bradshaw Mountain High School happened between March 29-31, leading to a $60,000 repair bill, according to FOX 10 Phoenix. A few days later, a massive blaze ripped through the Legado Luxury apartments, resulting in a shocking $60 million in estimated damages.

The ensuing chaos stretched Prescott Valley resources thin, as classes were abruptly canceled at the high school following the latest incident—an act of vandalism in the early hours of Thursday. This was after authorities discovered an electrical fire near the school's premises, adding to the disruptions. "We are looking for a person we are calling a suspect right now that is suspected in all of these crimes," said Police Chief Bob Ticer, as per a video message. Meanwhile, both power and internet services at the school were disrupted, deemed unsafe for holding classes,“As a result of this incident, both power and internet services have been affected, rendering it unsafe and impractical to conduct classes. The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our utmost priority, and we are taking this measure to ensure everyone’s safety,” stated Superintendent Christine Griffin in a communication to parents, reported by Arizona's Family.

As investigations intensify, police have released surveillance footage of the suspect decked out in all-black attire, including a facemask/gas mask, gloves, and boots, equipped with a Go-Pro style camera and headlamp – potentially recording their criminal activities. Authorities implore residents, especially those around Castle Canyon Mesa and Lynx Lake Estates, to keep an eye out for any suspicious activities and review any footage that might exist from the relevant periods of criminal activity.

A tip line has been set up by the Prescott Valley Police at (928) 772-5666, manned 24 hours a day, to gather any information the public might have. Additionally, Yavapai Silent Witness can be contacted at 1-800-932-3232 for anonymous tips. A special task force, which includes the Prescott Valley Police Department, Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, the County Attorney’s Office investigative unit, Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority, and the ATF National Response Team, has also been formed to tackle the series of crimes and ensure the perpetrator is swiftly brought to justice.