FDNY Fire Marshals, ATF, and NYPD Announce Arrest in Times Square School Bus Arson

July 20, 2026 — FDNY Fire Marshals, ATF, and NYPD Announce Arrest in Times Square School Bus Arson

The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY), in partnership with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced Monday the arrest of Jonathan Strahs, 30, of Brooklyn, in connection with the arson of a school bus on West 42nd Street in Times Square.

The incident occurred at approximately 2:47 a.m. on Sunday, June 14, as large crowds gathered in the Times Square area following the New York Knicks game and a FIFA World Cup match at MetLife Stadium. A school bus, one of several charter buses contracted to shuttle World Cup attendees between the Port Authority Bus Terminal and MetLife Stadium, had stopped on West 42nd Street between 8th and 9th Avenues due to heavy pedestrian congestion. Investigators reviewed surveillance video and observed an individual entering one of the unoccupied buses. A short time after the individual exited the vehicle, a fire was discovered inside. The fire subsequently spread throughout the interior and exterior, extending to a nearby vehicle before fire companies responded and quickly extinguished the fire.

FDNY Fire Marshals conducted an origin and cause examination and determined the fire was intentionally set. Working alongside NYPD Arson & Explosion Detectives and ATF Special Agents, investigators conducted a coordinated multi-agency investigation. Through a systematic review and analysis of surveillance footage, along with additional investigative techniques, investigators identified the suspect.

“This fire, set on a busy street during a night of celebration, put the lives of bystanders and first responders at risk. The work of our agencies has removed a dangerous individual from the streets of New York City and the FDNY will continue to work closely with our public safety partners to keep New Yorkers safe,” said Fire Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore. “This arrest reflects the strength of our partnership with ATF and NYPD, and the diligence of our Fire Marshals in following the evidence through an extensive and complex investigation.”

Strahs was taken into custody without incident at approximately 6:00 a.m. Monday at his Brooklyn residence. Strahs is charged with one count of federal arson. The U.S. Attorney's Office will prosecute the case.

Click here for a photo of the suspect.