The LAPD has arrested a man in the Woodland Hills area of Los Angeles on suspicion of arson related to the Kenneth Fire, which is now spreading toward Hidden Hills and Calabasas.
Authorities have confirmed that the fire, which has been rapidly spreading due to strong winds, was deliberately set.
In an interview with NewsNation, Charles Dinsel, a senior lead officer with the LAPD, stated: “What we know right now is that the incident occurred, started here, and about 20 minutes [to] 30 minutes later a suspect was detained over the Woodland Hills area by citizens.”
The Kenneth Fire has burned more than 950 acres.
According to Fox News, the arrest took place around 4:30 p.m. on Thursday near Arcos Drive and Galendo Street. Local residents saw a man riding a bicycle while carrying a torch and attempting to set fire to old Christmas trees and garbage cans. Fortunately, they intervened, subdued him, and secured him with zip ties.
The man was held by the residents until law enforcement arrived at the scene.
Authorities have not disclosed the suspect’s identity and are currently investigating whether he is connected to other fires in the area.
At first, the LAPD commented, “There’s no way to know at this moment exactly where and how the series of fires started, but an investigation is underway.”
Celebrities like Henry Winkler, Chris Brown, and Elizabeth Chambers suggested the possibility of intentional arson, prompting this response.
The LA wildfires have claimed 10 lives and caused numerous injuries. Despite firefighters’ relentless efforts, the fires remain uncontained.
The wildfires have already destroyed over 10,000 structures, including several iconic landmarks.
“We are expecting this fire to rapidly spread due to high winds,” stated LA Mayor Karen Bass.
Officials suspect that the Kenneth Fire, the most recent in a string of fires devastating parts of Los Angeles, started in the San Fernando Valley, near Ventura County and the West Hills neighborhood in the northwest area of the city.
The Kenneth Fire is currently burning to the north of the Palisades Fire.
According to Cal Fire, the Lidia Fire, which is the northernmost wildfire, is now 75% contained and has been removed from the list of active California Fire incidents.
At present, the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire remain the most extensive and pose a considerable danger.
