Man Arrested on Arson Charge After Fire at Hallman Elementary School in Northeast Salem

SALEM, Ore. -- Shayd Pursifull, 32, of Keizer, was arrested on arson-related charges early Friday morning after a fire at Hallman Elementary School in northeast Salem caused significant damage to the building.

On Thursday, September 17, 2026, at approximately 10:06 p.m., Salem Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the school in the 4000 block of Deerhaven Drive NE. A school employee was inside the building at the time and initial information indicated a person had been seen at the location and on the roof prior to the fire.

Multiple Salem Police patrol officers responded and established a perimeter, and a drone was used to try to locate the suspect. It was later determined the suspect had left the scene prior to officers being dispatched. The drone was also used to assist firefighters on scene and ensure there were no other people near or around the fire.

Patrol officers immediately contacted Salem-Keizer Public Schools security, who assisted detectives with the Felony Crimes Unit in identifying the suspect. At approximately 1:37 a.m. Friday, Keizer Police located and detained Pursifull before turning him over to Salem Police detectives working the case.

Pursifull was lodged at the Marion County Jail on multiple charges including Arson in the First Degree, Criminal Mischief in the First Degree and Recklessly Endangering Another Person, as well as an unrelated Criminal Arrest Warrant.

Damage is initially estimated at $500,000. The investigation is ongoing. There were no reported injuries as a result of the fire.

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