Video Evidence Links Kent Teen to Fatal Chelan Hills Wildfire

Key points

• A 30-second cell phone video released by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office shows a man, identified as suspect Michael Yakimov, firing a 'Trooper Turret' firework from the bed of a moving 2016 Dodge Ram near Highway 97 at 12:05 a.m. on July 4, 2026.
• Prosecutors allege the firework ignited dry brush, causing a wildfire that burned 10,000 acres, destroyed or damaged roughly 100 structures, and caused an estimated $6 million in property damage.
• The fire resulted in the death of 69-year-old Robert Lister of Orondo, whose vehicle slid off the road during evacuation, and caused injuries to six firefighters, including burns and thermal lung injuries.
• Yakimov, an 18-year-old from Kent, was arrested on September 2 and faces charges of first-degree manslaughter, first-degree arson, first-degree malicious mischief, and six counts of third-degree assault. He remains jailed on $1 million bail.
• Detectives recovered the specific firework device from the highway near the fire's origin and are seeking arrest warrants for five other individuals believed to have participated in the fireworks display.

Background

This development follows the September 2 arrest of Michael Yakimov, which was previously reported in our archive. The Chelan Hills Fire occurred during a period of low humidity and windy conditions, which accelerated the spread of the blaze. The case highlights the severe consequences of illegal fireworks use in dry, rural areas of Washington state, particularly during the Fourth of July holiday.

How outlets are covering it

FOX 13 Seattle and KPTV both reported on the release of the video, emphasizing the visual evidence of the teens firing fireworks from a moving truck. FOX 13 detailed the specific audio statement by the suspect, 'Don't tell them who was shooting, though,' and the recovery of the firework device. KPTV focused on the broader context of the teen group's involvement and the ongoing search for five other suspects. KATU's coverage was largely inaccessible due to technical errors, but its metadata confirmed the story's relevance to the Douglas County investigation. All outlets agree on the core facts regarding the suspect's charges and the fire's impact, though FOX 13 provided the most granular details on the video content and legal proceedings.

Why it matters

The release of this video provides critical evidence in a high-profile arson case that resulted in a fatality and significant property damage. It underscores the dangers of illegal fireworks in dry conditions and the legal consequences for those involved. The case also highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to identify and charge all participants in the incident, not just the primary suspect.

What to watch

Michael Yakimov is expected to enter a guilty or not guilty plea in court on Thursday. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office continues to seek arrest warrants for five other individuals believed to be involved in igniting the wildfire. The case will likely proceed through the legal system with the video footage serving as a key piece of evidence.