As part of the ongoing investigation of the Weil Arcade fire on Main Street in Downtown Hillsboro being conducted by the Hillsboro Police Department, the Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) investigators discovered the remains of a deceased male inside the location of the fire earlier this week.
The man's death was determined to be caused by smoke inhalation. Hillsboro Police detectives are working to identify the victim, who is not believed to be associated with the Weil Arcade businesses or location. Hillsboro Fire and Rescue concluded its investigation and determined the fire was intentionally set.
The discovery of the victim was delayed due to safety concerns with the building. We do not believe there are anymore victims in the debris. Information from the discovery of the deceased person will be forwarded to the Washington County District Attorney’s Office for review and charging decisions.
34-year-old Roel Leon, of Hillsboro, was arrested on January 5 and charged with arson and burglary.