Video above: This Nexstar Media video explains what to do if you witness a crime.
OCEANSIDE, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — A suspect was arrested early Saturday morning in connection with a string of suspected arson fires that have recently plagued the Loma Alta neighborhood of Oceanside, authorities announced.
According to a joint statement from the Oceanside Police and Fire Departments, the suspect was taken into custody around 1:20 a.m. after being caught in the act of setting a fire during a targeted surveillance operation.
The arrest follows an ongoing investigation into approximately 14 separate small vegetation fires that began occurring on or around July 30 in the area northwest of El Camino Real and Oceanside Boulevard.
Officials believe the fires were intentionally set and that the same individual may be responsible for the entire series. The suspect is believed to have acted alone, though the investigation remains active.
“This arrest is the result of outstanding collaboration between Oceanside Police and Fire investigators,” said Oceanside Fire Division Chief Blake Dorse. “The swift and coordinated actions of both agencies have played a critical role in safeguarding our community.”
Authorities are still reviewing evidence and have not released the suspect’s identity. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Oceanside Police or fire officials.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
