By Gina Yarbrough
Oceanside, CA–Oceanside Police and Fire Department investigators have arrested a suspect in connection with a series of small vegetation fires believed to be intentionally set in the Loma Alta neighborhood, authorities said.
On Saturday, investigators caught the suspect in the act of setting a fire at 1:20 a.m. in the area. They believe the individual acted alone and are reviewing evidence tied to about 14 fires that began around July 30.
Authorities say the fires were concentrated northwest of El Camino Real and Oceanside Boulevard. The pattern and proximity of the incidents prompted officials to conduct targeted surveillance in the area.
“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.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not released the suspect’s identity.
