Thursday, October 1, 2026
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A man is facing charges of possession of an explosive device and second-degree arson following an incident near a gas station in Olympia.
An Olympia Police Department report states that Paupau Justin Tupai, 32, of Olympia, started a fire using an explosive device near Chevron in the 3200 block of Pacific Avenue in Olympia on Aug. 23.
The report states Tupai threw an explosive device into a grassy field adjacent to the station, sparking a blaze that scorched the property.
“The Olympia Fire Department advised me that the conditions constituted a red flag warning and active fire ban. Had the flames spread another 15-20 feet, the highly populated Jungle homeless encampment could have ignited, creating significant danger to human life and widespread property damage,” an Olympia police officer states in the report.
Responding officers reviewed closed cirucit footage, as well as photos taken by a witness, to identify the suspect. He was located and taken into custody on Sept. 13.
During an interview, the suspect admitted to throwing a mortar-style firework, but claimed he only wanted to see the explosion and did not intend to ignite the fire.
3 comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here
KatAshe
Let’s just hope he receives a very high bail. It was only pur luck that he didn’t injure or kill someone.
Monday, September 29, 2025 Report this
JustSaying
Looks like he is still in custody. The jail roster shows he is being held on $12,500 bail.
Monday, September 29, 2025 Report this
JulesJames
Just another eviction by arson in The Jungle would be my all-too-experienced guess.
Monday, September 29, 2025 Report this