Man arrested after starting fire to stay warm at Walla Walla business
By Dan Thesman on Tuesday, April 28th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – A Milton-Freewater man was arrested early Monday morning after allegedly starting a fire outside a Walla Walla business to stay warm, according to the Walla Walla Police Department.
Police responded to the Circle K Store at 315 North Second Ave. at approximately 12:02 a.m. following reports of a fire near a building. Upon arrival, officers discovered a small fire involving a log outside the premises.
Firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control. Authorities reported no injuries or property damage resulting from the incident.
During the investigation, officers contacted Derek Wanous, 32. Police said Wanous admitted to starting the fire to keep warm. Officers also discovered suspected controlled substances in his possession during the encounter.
Wanous was taken into custody and booked into the Walla Walla County Jail. He faces charges of first-degree reckless burning and knowingly possessing a controlled substance.
