Suspect in arson of Thompson Block building likely left the state, authorities say

Jacob Robert-Andrew Popiolek

Popiolek, whose last known address was in Ypsilanti, was charged in April with arson to real property, a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Ichesco said local law enforcement officials have limited resources in pursuing Popiolek beyond state borders, but he is exploring how the International Association of Arson Investigators could assist in the investigation.

“Bad people have done this for years,” Ichesco said. “They flee and elude and hide out and use a number of names - anything not to get caught. We just have to keep looking at it before it goes cold and keep trying to stir something up.”

Officials believe several people were trespassing in the Thompson Block on Sept. 23 when an early morning blaze gutted the historic structure’s interior. Authorities say they were drinking and smoking when the fire was sparked. So far, Popiolek is the only suspect charged with arson.

Developer Stewart Beal had begun renovation work on the building prior to the fire. A disagreement between Beal and the city over renovation plans since the incident has led to court-ordered facilitation.

Popiolek is described as white, 6 feet 3 inches tall, 160 pounds, with brown hair and eyes. Ichesco said the Michigan Arson Prevention Committee is offering a $5,000 reward leading to Popiolek’s arrest and conviction.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the MAPC hotline at 800-44-ARSON or Ypsilanti Police Det. Jason Cyrbok at 734-482-9872.

Tom Perkins is a freelance writer for AnnArbor.com. Reach the news desk at news@annarbor.com or 734-623-2530.