Authorities have arrested a man in Los Angeles suspected of attempting to start a fire in the Woodland Hills area amid the devastation caused by ongoing wildfires. The individual was allegedly seen carrying a blow torch and attempting to ignite garbage cans and discarded Christmas trees on Ybarra Road. Local residents intervened, detaining the man and preventing further damage before calling the police.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene where the man, reportedly holding a propane tank or flamethrower, was confronted by neighbors who managed to subdue him. Video footage captured the dramatic moments as residents zip-tied the suspect and handed him over to law enforcement. Police are now investigating whether the individual is linked to any of the five major fires currently ravaging Southern California, including the Kenneth Fire in West Hills.
The Kenneth Fire alone has burned over 950 acres and prompted mass evacuations. Overall, the wildfires have scorched nearly 30,000 acres across Los Angeles County, leaving widespread destruction. At least 10 people have lost their lives, and officials warn the death toll may rise as the fires continue to spread under dangerous conditions.
This arrest comes as emergency responders face immense challenges battling the fires. Donations to support victims and firefighters are being encouraged through organizations like the Red Cross, as communities unite to address the aftermath of the catastrophic wildfires.
