West Hollywood Sheriff’s report that the arson suspect believed to have torched two vehicles and attempted to light a third one at the parking lot of 8730 Santa Monica Boulevard has been arrested. A source tells WEHO TIMES, a ring camera in one of the vehicles recorded the suspect stuffing wads of paper in the vehicles and lighting it on fire. The video footage was turned over to Sheriffs deputies and was useful in leading to an arrest three days later.
Witnesses on the scene submitted photos of a white BMW SUV completely engulfed in flames. The car next to it also caught fire. Fire and Sheriff duties were on the scene. Loud explosions forced witnesses to vacate the area.
“Earlier this week on Tuesday April 5, 2022, at approximately 2:05PM, West Hollywood Station Deputies and LA County Fire Department responded to the 8700 block of Santa Monica Blvd in the City of West Hollywood, regarding a smoke investigation,” reads a report be the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station. “Upon arrival Deputies saw a vehicle and several trees engulfed in flames. After the fire was extinguished, it was determined the fire was ignited by a person and criminal in nature. Later the same day #WeHo Deputies followed up on information and arrested a male White adult for maliciously setting the vehicle on fire. Detectives from LASD Arson Explosives Detail responded and assisted with the investigation. The case was presented to the LA County DA’s Office. Today the DA’s office filed arson charges on the suspect (451 PC). No one was injured during the fire, however property including several vehicles, trees and a shed were damaged.”
The identity of the arson suspect has not been released and a motive for the fires is not yet known.
The West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station thanked community members who called the station and dialed 911 to provide important information and details related to the fire. As always, If You See Something Say Something and call 911 or 310-855-8850 for non-emergent situations.
