An arson suspect allegedly seen with a device resembling a “flamethrower” was apprehended near one of the fires in Los Angeles, as reported by KTLA. Police officers arrived to find him being restrained by neighbors in the Woodland Hills area. Renata Grinshpun, an observer, mentioned that the man had a “propane tank or a flamethrower,” and a neighbor saw him attempting to ignite something behind a vehicle. A passerby urged residents to call 911, prompting some to assist in what was essentially a citizen’s arrest. A few men used zip ties to hold him until police arrived. Although the suspect was detained near the Kenneth Fire, one of several fires impacting the metro area, officials stated they could not confirm his involvement in the larger wildfires. The Los Angeles Police Department indicated that the man’s actions are under investigation for potential arson charges. “We are continuing our investigation,” a police spokesperson stated. “At this stage, we cannot confirm any connection to a fire.” An official from the Ventura County Sheriff’s office was set to assist LAPD in questioning the suspect, according to CBS-owned KCAL. HuffPost has contacted the LAPD’s Topanga Division, responsible for Woodland Hills, for further updates. The Kenneth Fire is among several affecting the Los Angeles area, with the blazes having resulted in at least 10 fatalities and the destruction of over 10,000 buildings, as reported by The Associated Press.
Arson Suspect Arrested By Neighbors Near One Of L.A. Fires
