Federal investigators said Wednesday they believe four attacks on Jehovah's Witnesses churches in Thurston County are linked, and a $25,000 reward is now being offered for information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible.
At a morning news conference, officials with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said there have been three arsons and one reported shooting this year at Jehovah's Witnesses' Kingdom Halls in Olympia, Tumwater and Yelm. All four attacks are considered hate crimes, said Thurston County Sheriff John Snaza.
ATF Special Agent Darek G. Pleasants said authorities are worried that there may be further attacks that could result in injury or death, and it is imperative that the suspect be caught. He implored anyone with information that might help crack the case to contact police.