A 34-year-old woman was arrested Friday after witnesses told Salt Lake City police she tried to light a vehicle's gas tank on fire. Officers moved in and took her into custody at the scene.
According to KUTV, the suspect has been identified as Elena Garbe, 34. She was booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail and is facing a list of charges that includes arson, a third-degree felony, along with multiple counts of unlawful absence after pretrial release, failure to stop at the command of law enforcement, obstruction of justice, and failure to disclose identity, according to the arrest affidavit.
Police Affidavit And Witness Accounts
The arrest affidavit states that "several independent witnesses saw Garbe attempt to light the vehicle's gas tank on fire," and alleges she refused to stop or identify herself when officers ordered her to do so, KUTV reports. The affidavit also notes that Garbe had several active warrants and did not provide a reasonable excuse for missing previously scheduled court appearances.
Charges And Potential Penalties
Under Utah law, arson is graded by the extent of damage and whether the act puts human life at risk. A third-degree felony arson conviction can carry a sentence of up to five years in prison and fines up to $5,000, according to the Utah Code. The remaining misdemeanor counts carry shorter county-level jail terms and potential fines under state sentencing rules.
What Happens Next
Garbe remains in custody at the Salt Lake County Metro Jail as the case moves into the county court system. Upcoming hearings, filings, and any changes to her status will be reflected in county court calendars and public records.
