In a shocking turn of events, firefighters have apprehended a second suspected arsonist amidst the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. This arrest comes on the heels of another incident involving an illegal immigrant allegedly setting fires in Calabasas. What led to the arrest of Ruben Montes?
Arsonist Caught in the Act
Firefighters responding to a small brush fire in Irwindale made a startling discovery when they witnessed Ruben Montes actively starting fires in the area. The Irwindale Police Department swiftly detained and arrested Montes on arson charges.
Details surrounding the incident remain limited, and it is unclear whether Montes was responsible for the initial brush fire or if his actions caused any additional damage. The arrest location is particularly concerning, given its proximity to the ongoing Eaton Fire in Altadena, merely 16 miles away.
A group of Los Angeles residents confronted and apprehended a man they believe may be an arsonist responsible for setting one of multiple wildfires in Southern California. pic.twitter.com/CPXxPdnwIa
— Fox News (@FoxNews) January 10, 2025
Previous Arson Incidents and Immigration Concerns
Montes’ arrest follows a recent incident involving Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva, an illegal immigrant allegedly caught with a blowtorch near a fire in Calabasas. Despite being detained by residents, Sierra-Leyva was not charged with arson due to insufficient probable cause.
LA Police Department Divisional Chief Dominic Choi stated, “After the interview and additional investigative steps, looking at some additional evidence that was present, they made the determination that there was not enough probable cause to arrest this person on arson or suspicion of arson.” This decision has raised concerns among residents and officials.
Citizens of Los Angeles who apprehend the arsonist POS who was carrying a blowtorch near the Kenneth Fire in California.
This man is now in custody.
Heroes.
pic.twitter.com/oUKkL4Aj3q— Sara Rose 🇺🇸🌹 (@saras76) January 10, 2025
Devastating Impact of Los Angeles Wildfires
The ongoing wildfire crisis in Los Angeles has had catastrophic consequences for the region. With 24 lives lost, over 40,000 acres burned, and 150,000 people forced to evacuate, the scale of destruction is immense.
The fires have ravaged both affluent and ordinary neighborhoods, destroying an estimated 12,300 structures. Celebrity homes and popular restaurants have not been spared, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the disaster.