HILLSBORO, Ore. — The man accused of intentionally setting a fire that destroyed multiple businesses in downtown Hillsboro now faces additional murder and arson charges after fire investigators found human remains in the wreckage.
Due to safety concerns with the building, the remains were not found until the week of Feb. 7. The remains were later identified as 40-year-old Ronald Knapp, Hillsboro Police said.
In the early morning of Jan. 2, fire crews were called to a four-alarm fire at 231 East Main Street. Several fire departments were called to combat the flames. Once the fire was contained, Hillsboro police, Hillsboro Fire & Rescue and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives began their investigation and found Knapp's remains.
Police said Knapp died of smoke inhalation. Police do not believe he was connected to the Weil Arcade businesses or location.
Investigators believe the fire was intentionally set by 34-year-old Roel Leon of Hillsboro, who was arrested back on Jan. 5. Leon is also accused of setting fire to two nearby vehicles on Jan. 2, and committing a burglary on Jan. 4.
Leon was arraigned on a grand jury indictment Feb. 15. He now faces additional charges of second-degree murder and first-degree arson. He was initially charged with two counts of second-degree arson and three counts of second-degree burglary.
"Just devastating," Hillsboro Mayor Steve Callaway said back on Jan. 2. "Our main street is the heart and soul... To have this be the way your new year starts is just crushing."
Police are asking anyone with information to reach out to Det. Michelle Hahn at 503-681-6190, or email Michelle.Hahn@hillsboro-oregon.gov in reference to HPD case numbers 21-20779, 22-54, 22-55 and 22-102.
