Suspect Arrested for Arson in Los Angeles Wildfire
A man has been arrested on suspicion of igniting a wildfire that broke out in Los Angeles on Thursday afternoon, January 9.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) launched an arson investigation at Victory Trailhead, the site of the fire’s origin, treating the area as a crime scene. Brian Entin of NewsNation shared details of the investigation on X.
Dubbed the Kenneth Fire, the blaze erupted around 2:30 p.m. and has since scorched over 800 acres, spreading into Ventura County, according to Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley.
“About 20 to 30 minutes later, a suspect was detained by citizens in the Woodland Hills area,” LAPD Senior Lead Officer Sean Dinse told reporters. The suspect, a homeless man in his 30s, was apprehended roughly five miles from the fire’s starting point, as confirmed by Fox News.
Fire Investigation and Containment Progress
While the cause of the fire remains unknown, officials have classified it as a criminal investigation. By 11 p.m. Thursday, the fire had consumed over 1,000 acres, with firefighters achieving 35 percent containment. Fire crews continued battling the flames overnight, successfully halting its forward progress.
Authorities are also investigating whether the suspect is connected to other fires in the area.
Rising Death Toll and Looting Incidents
The death toll from the wildfires has risen to 10, with the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner working to identify the victims.
Amid the chaos, at least 20 individuals have been arrested on suspicion of looting, forcing some residents to hire private security to protect their homes.
Emergency Measures and Warnings
Kathryn Barger, Los Angeles County Supervisor, announced a curfew in specific areas affected by the Pacific Palisades and Eaton fires.
“I promise you, you will be held accountable,” Barger stated, addressing those exploiting the crisis. “Shame on those preying on our residents during this time of tragedy.”
