The Los Angeles Police Department has arrested a local man on suspicion of arson following the outbreak of a new wildfire in California yesterday.
This development comes as more than 30,000 residents have been forced to evacuate under mandatory orders. The wildfires have already destroyed thousands of homes and structures across the region.
The first blaze, known as the Palisades Fire, ignited on January 7. The combination of extremely dry conditions and unusually high temperatures in the area allowed the fire to spread at an alarming rate.
Currently, there are five active wildfires, which have displaced thousands of residents, including high-profile celebrities such as Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt, Cameron Mathison, and Paris Hilton.
In the days following, a spokesperson for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection informed the press that there is “no possibility” of containing the flames at this stage.
David Acuna told CNN: “[We are] mostly concerned with ensuring that all people get out of the area because life safety is the most important part, and we’re helping plan to that their pets and livestock also have a safe shelter.”
A man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to ignite a fire, which authorities believe is connected to the Kenneth Fire. The blaze began on Thursday and has since consumed over 900 acres. Officials are now treating the incident as a criminal investigation.
Residents in the Woodland Hills area of West Hill apprehended the man before contacting emergency services.
Charles Dinsel, the senior lead officer in charge of the investigation, confirmed that the arrest was made after the suspect was reportedly seen trying to start a fire.
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) stated, “Approximately 20 to 30 minutes later, a suspect was detained in the Woodland Hills area by citizens. It is being investigated as a crime.”
To combat the Kenneth Fire, over 900 Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) personnel were dispatched, joining thousands already working to contain other rapidly spreading wildfires in the region.
Local authorities are currently looking into the possibility that the initial Palisades fire may have been caused by arson. Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley informed CNN that 21 officials are now involved in the investigation.
The confirmed death toll has reached 10, but it is anticipated to rise.
The remains of several victims are still being identified, according to the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s office.
