The University Record, November 13, 1995
November 13, 1995
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Second suspect arrested in Baits arson case
By Elizabeth H. Hall
Business Operations
The Washtenaw County Prosecutor authorized on Nov. 7 a three-count warrant for Crystal Lujan, 23, in connection with an arson that occurred Sept. 22 in Baits Residence Hall, according to Capt. James Smiley, Department of Public Safety (DPS).
“DPS investigators, the Washtenaw County Sheriff Department and the Ann Arbor Police Department acted swiftly and effectively to identify the alleged perpetrators of this crime,” Smiley said. “We are very pleased that we were able to collaborate on this case and bring it to resolution.”
Lujan, a U-M student, was charged with assault with intent to murder, a felony punishable by up to life in prison; placing explosives with damage resulting, a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison; and arson of a dwelling house, a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison, Smiley said. The defendant was arraigned Nov. 7 at the Washtenaw County Jail, where she is being held without bond. A preliminary exam is scheduled for Dec. 7.
A previous suspect in the arson case, Dale Lipke, 23, remains incarcerated at the Washtenaw County Jail in lieu of bond. His preliminary exam is scheduled for Nov. 15. Lipke is not affiliated with the University.
In addition, the Washtenaw County Sheriff Department obtained warrants on Lujan and Lipke in connection with a homicide case in Superior Township. “This case is an excellent example of how effective collaboration between law enforcement agencies can be,” said Detective Sgt. Roy Mays, Washtenaw County Sheriff Department. “This kind of cooperative effort is imperative in fighting crime in our community.”
