According to authorities, the incident happened early in the morning on January 17 at an apartment complex on the south side of the city. The fire was reported just after 6 a.m., and firefighters arrived about 30 minutes later. By then, the fire had already spread through parts of the building, forcing emergency crews to rescue several residents from the second floor.
Investigators later determined the fire was intentionally set. Officials said the blaze started near the front entrance of the building, where fire damage and burn patterns pointed to the use of an accelerant.
Police reportedly reviewed surveillance video from the area. The footage allegedly showed a man removing personal belongings from the building before the fire started. He was then seen returning briefly and leaving again as flames began to spread behind him. Authorities say he fled the scene on foot.
The suspect was later located a few miles away. According to investigators, when they discussed the incident with the man, he allegedly admitted to starting the fire because he was angry about neighbors smoking marijuana inside the building. Officials say gasoline was poured in a hallway and then ignited.
Five people were hospitalized as a result of the fire. One resident suffered serious smoke inhalation, while another was treated for cuts to her legs. The suspect’s mother was also injured while trying to escape. She reportedly woke up to smoke and alarms, climbed out a window, and suffered scrapes and a broken ankle.
All eight apartment units were heavily damaged and left unlivable. About 25 people were displaced and had to seek help from the Red Cross. Authorities noted the building did not have working sprinkler systems due to its age.
The suspect is facing preliminary charges of arson of a building, reckless injury in the first degree, and six counts of first-degree recklessly endangering safety.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.