Authorities have arrested Jonathan Strahs, 30, for allegedly setting a school bus on fire in Times Square on June 14, the same night the New York Knicks secured their first NBA championship in 53 years. Strahs was taken into custody at his Brooklyn residence on Monday morning, according to the Fire Department of New York (FDNY).
The incident occurred around 2:47 a.m. when Strahs allegedly entered a charter bus contracted to transport World Cup attendees. Surveillance footage captured the vehicle engulfed in flames shortly after Strahs exited, fire officials stated. The blaze spread to a nearby vehicle before firefighters responded and extinguished the fire.
An investigation by FDNY Fire Marshals, in coordination with the NYPD's Arson and Explosion Detectives and ATF Special Agents, identified Strahs as a suspect. He has been charged with one count of federal arson.
"This fire, set on a busy street during a night of celebration, put the lives of bystanders and first responders at risk," Fire Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said in a statement. "The work of our agencies has removed a dangerous individual from the streets of New York City, and the FDNY will continue to work closely with our public safety partners to keep New Yorkers safe."
Strahs' arrest is part of a broader response to incidents that occurred during the championship celebrations. In total, at least 63 people were arrested in connection with the festivities, which also saw a shooting and multiple stabbings.