Seattle Crime Report

According to a police report, a man was arrested on May 21, 2025, for shoplifting and reckless burning at a grocery store located at 1401 Broadway. The suspect, identified as Yewondwossen Abetew, attempted to steal a cake from the store without paying for it. When confronted by security staff, Abetew returned to the store, lit papers on fire, and attempted to steal another cake.

Security staff at the store, including a witness named Renegade, detained Abetew and put out the fire. The police were called, and Officer Christopher Jones arrived at the scene to take Abetew into custody. Abetew was found to have given a false name after being formally arrested and was only identified after being transported and booked into jail.

Abetew was charged with three misdemeanors: reckless burning, theft-shoplifting, and false reporting. He was booked into jail on May 22, 2025. The police report also notes that Abetew has a history of shoplifting and had been previously trespassed from the property. The incident is still under investigation, and authorities are reviewing security footage to determine the full extent of Abetew's actions.

The arrest was made possible by the quick thinking and action of the security staff at the store, who were able to detain Abetew and prevent any further damage or harm. The police department commends the staff for their bravery and cooperation in bringing Abetew to justice.