UPDATE: Coast guard attack, arson suspect ID’d

GOLDEN TWP. — The 34-year-old man who attacked the U.S. Coast Guard Station in Grand Haven early Sunday morning, Feb. 8, and is linked to the suspicious fire near Mears a few hours prior to the attack has been identified as Matthew Krueger.

Lt. Craig Mast of the Oceana County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Krueger’s identity Monday morning, Feb. 9. Since Krueger has not been arrested or arraigned in Oceana County yet, local law enforcement are releasing few details about him right now.

It has been reported that Krueger is from Illinois and was a seasonal resident of the building described as a “hobby garage” that contained a very small living space. The building located at the end of Deer Road on 34th Avenue/B-15 was decorated to look like a 1950s-style garage and served as somewhat of a landmark in the Silver Lake area. Seven vehicles parked inside were destroyed, Hart Fire Chief Ken Klotz said, and the building is a total loss.

The building, which was insured, was purchased by Krueger’s parents a few years ago. He was seen in the area before the fire, officials said, and was the last known occupant of the building.

Updates will be posted as they become available.