Bryce Michael Williams, Conspiracy to Commit Arson, Minnesota 2020

Bryce Michael Williams, 26, of Staples, Minnesota, has been charged with conspiracy to commit arson in connection with the destruction of the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct building during the 2020 protests.

According to a complaint filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office, Williams was identified in surveillance video footage as one of the individuals who started a fire at the precinct on May 28, 2020. The complaint states that Williams was seen standing near the entrance of the building, holding a Molotov cocktail, while other individuals attempted to light the wick.

Williams' arrest was announced on June 16, 2020, and he made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis. The ATF and FBI are urging the public to report any information related to the arson or other violent acts associated with the recent unrest.

The investigation into the arson was conducted jointly by the ATF, FBI, Minneapolis Police Department, Staples Police Department, Todd County Sheriff's Office, Minnesota State Patrol, Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force, and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry M. Jacobs and David P. Steinkamp. Williams is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Defendant Information: BRYCE MICHAEL WILLIAMS, 26, Staples, Minn. Charges: Conspiracy to commit arson, 1 count. Date: May 28, 2020. Outcome: Currently pending.

The public is urged to report any information related to the arson or other violent acts to the ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477) or the FBI at 1-800-CALLFBI (800-225-5324).

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/staples-man-charged-minneapolis-police-third-precinct-arson