West Seattle on Alert: Police Activity, Arson & Hit-and-Run – July 30th Update
West Seattle Police Activity & Incident Updates: A Comprehensive Look at July 30, 2025 Events

On July 30, 2025, West Seattle experienced a notable surge in police activity, drawing significant attention and concern from local residents. This detailed report compiles crucial information from the West Seattle Blog, focusing on a substantial police presence and two distinct investigations: a serious arson incident and a recent hit-and-run. Our aim is to provide a clear, comprehensive overview of these events, offering essential details and emphasizing the importance of community involvement in supporting ongoing investigations.
Elevated Police Presence in West Seattle’s Sunrise Heights

Throughout the day, residents in the Sunrise Heights area of West Seattle observed a significant Seattle Police Department presence. This included the deployment of “Guardian One,” the SPD’s dedicated helicopter, which was seen circling overhead. Initial community reports, shared widely through local channels and the West Seattle Blog, indicated potential gunshots near EC Hughes and Navos. The helicopter remained in the vicinity for a period before departing. The West Seattle Blog continues to investigate the specifics of this incident, actively seeking community input and official updates. The blog’s live comment section featured numerous resident observations, including accounts of sirens and suspected gunfire, highlighting the community’s engagement and concern.
Arson Incident at West Seattle Arcade: Damage and Security Upgrades

A confirmed incident of arson occurred at the West Seattle Arcade, located at 2758 Alki Ave SW, on Tuesday evening. A fire was intentionally set within the men’s restroom, resulting in an estimated $6,000 to $10,000 in damage. Co-owner Elyssa Cichy suspects that vandals, possibly young individuals, were responsible for this deliberate act. The Seattle Fire Department (Engine 29) responded swiftly, quickly bringing the blaze under control. Despite the significant damage, the arcade remains open for business, though access to restrooms is temporarily limited to a single facility. In response to the incident, the owners are proactively enhancing security measures, including plans to install a code-entry system for restroom access. Repairs are anticipated to be completed within approximately one week. The police are actively investigating this case under number 25-215401 and have requested any available video footage from the arcade owners to assist with their inquiry.
West Seattle Hit-and-Run on 40th Ave SW: Call for Witnesses

In a distinct incident, a hit-and-run took place on 40th Ave SW, in the vicinity of Sound & Fog and Bank of America. A parked vehicle sustained considerable damage, including a detached bumper, as a result of the collision. The Seattle Police Department is actively pursuing leads and is appealing to the public for assistance. They encourage anyone who witnessed the incident or has any relevant camera footage to come forward. This hit-and-run is logged under police case number 25-216041 as an active investigation.
Community Cooperation in West Seattle Police Investigations

Both the arson at the West Seattle Arcade and the hit-and-run on 40th Ave SW remain active investigations by the Seattle Police Department. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to either of these incidents to contact them promptly. The West Seattle Blog continues to serve as a vital resource, providing timely updates and fostering communication between the community and law enforcement agencies. The initial, unconfirmed police activity reported near Sunrise Heights also remains under investigation, and further details will be disseminated to the public as they become available. Community involvement is crucial in helping solve these local crimes and ensuring the safety of West Seattle residents.