SFPD Arrest Suspect in Arson Investigation 18-153

On November 18, 2018 at approximately 12:26 AM, San Francisco Police responded to the 800 block of Geary Street on the call of a working fire at a commercial building. The SFPD/SFFD Arson Task Force conducted an investigation into the fire and determined the cause to be arson related. A crime bulletin containing details of the incident and a description of outstanding suspect was distributed to police officers. Additionally, the victim was able to capture surveillance footage of the suspect and released the video on social media.

On November 20, 2018 at approximately 10:51 PM, San Francisco Police responded to the 1000 block of Polk Street regarding a possible arson suspect on the premises. The reporting party told dispatch he saw a news story about the arson on Geary Street and believed the individual to be the suspect police were looking for.

Police took the suspect into custody without incident. Atxay Phongvichith, 58 years old, San Francisco resident, was booked in to San Francisco County Jail on two felony arson charges and one misdemeanor charge of failure to register as an arson offender. His booking photo accompanies this news release.

While an arrest has been made, anyone with information is encouraged to contact the SFPD Anonymous Tip Line at 415-575-4444 or text a tip to TIP411 with SFPD at the beginning of the message.