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Brooklyn Man Arrested on Federal Arson Charge for Times Square Bus Fire

A surveillance-driven FDNY, NYPD and ATF probe identified the suspect and placed the case in federal hands.

Overview

  • A charter bus parked on West 42nd Street was set on fire on June 14, 2026, and the blaze spread to a nearby vehicle before firefighters put it out.
  • FDNY Fire Marshals determined the fire was intentionally set after on-scene forensics and a review of video evidence.
  • Authorities say surveillance footage shows Jonathan Strahs entering and leaving the bus shortly before it ignited, and investigators used that footage to identify him.
  • Strahs, 30, was arrested at his Bushwick home on July 20 and has been charged with one count of federal arson after a joint FDNYNYPDATF operation.
  • Officials note the arrest highlights the public-safety risks of large street celebrations and say no motive, trial date, or civil claims have been reported so far.