Photo by Sue Misao/NWAW
The burned-out Hudson Building in the International District continues to suffer indignities as it waits for rehabilitation.
Last month, the owner of one of the building’s businesses — closed since the Dec. 24 fire — reported the burglary of $10,000 to $20,000 worth of herbs being stored in the Yuan Sheng Hang herbal shop.
According to a Seattle police report, someone unhinged the gate surrounding the building, broke one of the herbal shop’s windows, crawled into the shop, and stole large glass containers of herbs. According to police, the burglar also opened a cooler and took out a Red Bull and drank it. Police were able to get fingerprints from the can.
“It seems like he knew what he was looking for,” said building owner Tanya Woo, saying the burglar took the most expensive herbs, including ginseng.
While investigating the break-in, a second herb shop owner nearby also reported a burglary the week before.
Woo also said someone had broken into the Hudson Building and sprayed graffiti.
Meanwhile, stabilization plans for the Hudson Building are on hold, pending a bank loan. (end)