California Fires
Flamethrower-armed arson suspect arrested in LA amid wildfires
Residents performed a citizens' arrest on Thursday evening, intervening as a man sought to light another fire in Woodland Hills.
The Los Angeles Police Department have confirmed that a suspected arsonist has been arrested in relation to the wildfires that continue to swirl around the LA area.
On Thursday afternoon a man was apprehended by citizens as he allegedly attempted to start a fire in the Woodland Hills, eventually being restrained using zip ties and rope. The suspect is believed to be in his mid-20s. One resident involved in the citizen’s arrest described the man as being armed with a “propane tank, or a… big yellow tank, like a flame-thrower“.
Law enforcement officials have not yet confirmed whether the man arrested was responsible for the pre-existing wildfires. Investigators have previously indicated that they believe the fires may have been started intentionally.
Sean Dinse of the LAPD’s Topanga Division has issued a statement: “What we know right now is that the incident occurred here and about 20-30 minutes later, a suspect was detained by citizens.”
When asked whether the suspect was being investigated regarding arson, Dinse replied: “At this time, that’s what we believe. It’s being investigated as a crime.”
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