Search underway for serial arsonist targeting Mount Washington, Glassell Park and Silver Lake communities
Authorities are searching for a suspect who has been starting multiple fires in several Southland neighborhoods.
Thus far, Los Angeles Fire Department investigators say they've been made aware of "suspicious fires" near the Mount Washington, Glassell Park and Silver Lake communities.
One of the most recent occurrences came about a week ago, when some cypress trees outside of Walker Moguel's home in Mount Washington erupted into flames. He shared some security video of the fire, showing how intense the fire was as he attempted to protect his home.
"It makes me nervous. I just want to know why? What is the point of setting these fires. This isn't a game, people live very close to these trees that were intentionally set on fire," Moguel said. "I was freaking out. I thought I was going to lose my home."
The fire blew out a window, but was contained before reaching the home.
The security footage also shows a person walking past Moguel's home just moments before the flames are first spotted.
Authorities said the incidents started happening about a month ago and they believe the suspect is responsible for setting around 26 fires in the area since the beginning of March.
"LAFD Arson Investigators, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Special Agent, and LAPD Detectives are actively following up on leads provided by the public," said a statement from LAFD. "These agencies are working collaboratively to conduct a thorough investigation and to bring to justice any potential criminal behavior. Determining the cause of these fires remains a high priority, in an effort to increase public safety."
Thus far, investigators are looking into these incidents by going through security camera footage and talking to residents in the impacted areas.
The fires were first reported in Silver Lake before the incidents began to move northbound to the Mount Washington area. Recently, another incident where cypress trees were ignited occurred in Montecito Heights on Monday.
Luckily, there have been no reports of injuries or extensive property damage thus far.
As they continue to investigate, firefighters ask anyone with information to contact the LAFD Arson Tip Line at (213) 893-9850.
