A man was seen starting fires with a blow torch in a Los Angeles neighborhood but is not being charged with arson due to a police investigation that found "no probable cause. " He is currently being held for a felony probation violation. The incident occurred near the Kenneth fire, which started Thursday afternoon, and the suspect, believed to be homeless, was reportedly trying to ignite old Christmas trees and garbage cans with the torch.
Witnesses and residents intervened, helping to restrain him until police arrived. They described the man as agitated and under the influence. Despite eyewitness accounts of him starting fires, police announced they could not charge him with arson, stating there wasn't enough probable cause. The Kenneth fire has burned 1,000 acres and is about 35 percent contained.
Videos have surfaced of other people setting fires in Los Angeles. An LA-area homeowners association has warned residents of a "savvy arsonist" targeting wealthy neighborhoods. The HOA president mentioned needing to remain vigilant against suspicious activities, suggesting that residents monitor security cameras and check on their pets.
Recent fires in Los Angeles County have destroyed over 10,000 homes and structures and have burned about 36,000 acres. More fires are still erupting, leading to evacuations. At least 20 looters have been arrested in connection to homes impacted by the wildfires. Reports indicate that at least ten lives have been lost due to the fires.
A firefighter mentioned viewing a video of two men dumping gasoline before the Palisades fire started, but the LAPD has not received reports about arson related to that fire. As investigations continue, the community remains on high alert for possible arson activities.
No comments:
Post a Comment