Suspected Hudson’s Hamburgers arsonist caught on camera

COEUR d’ALENE — Police are asking for the public’s help to identify a man suspected of arson and burglary at Hudson’s Hamburgers earlier this week.

Detectives located surveillance footage of a man who can be seen in the area of the downtown Coeur d’Alene business late Monday and early Tuesday, before the fire was reported.

Police said the suspect is seen throughout the night walking between 2nd and 4th streets and Front Avenue to Indiana Avenue.

The suspect reportedly altered his appearance three times during the night, but he did not change his pants or boots. He was wearing a light-colored mask covering the lower part of his face.

Police said the fire started about 6:30 a.m. Tuesday in the back of the building at 207 Sherman Ave.

Sherman Avenue was closed to traffic for about an hour as firefighters doused the blaze and then set up fans to air out the building. Though structural damage was limited to the back supply room area, there was smoke damage throughout the popular burger spot.

When the fire was extinguished, officers on scene reportedly discovered evidence of a burglary and arson. Owner Steve Hudson said someone tried to break into the ATM.

An investigation continues.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Coeur d’Alene Police Department at (208) 769-2296 or policetips@cdaid.org