Hillsboro killer-arsonist sentenced to Oregon prison

Tim Steele
·1 min read

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The person who torched the Weil Arcade in downtown Hillsboro will spend the next 30 years in prison after admitting to manslaughter and arson, the Washington County District Attorney’s Office said.

Rose Sunrise, who was known as Roel Leon at the time of the arrest in early 2022, broke into a business in the Weil Arcade at least twice, in December 2021 and January 2022. The first time, Sunrise stole a few items. But the second time, Sunrise set fire to the business after stealing a few more items, then watched it grow to a 4-alarm fire while recording it on a phone.

Rose Sunrise, previously known as Roel Leon, was sentenced on March 26, 2024 to 30 years in prison for arsons and manslaughter in Hillsboro in 2022. (Undated photo released by Washington County DA's Office)
Rose Sunrise, previously known as Roel Leon, was sentenced on March 26, 2024 to 30 years in prison for arsons and manslaughter in Hillsboro in 2022. (Undated photo released by Washington County DA’s Office)

The Weil Arcade was destroyed and more than 20 businesses were affected. The fire also claimed the life of Ronald Knapp, who investigators believe took shelter on the second floor on that bitterly cold night.

Sunrise set 2 more fires in cars parked outside an auto shop.

Investigators quickly zeroed in and arrested Sunrise (then known as Leon) on January 5, 2022.

On March 12, Sunrise pleaded guilty to manslaughter and burglary, plus 2 counts each of arson and criminal mischief. Judge Janelle Wipper handed down the 30-year sentence on March 26.

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