Authorities early Saturday arrested a suspect as the person allegedly set a fire that may be connected to a series of small blazes in the community.
At approximately 1:20 a.m., the suspect was taken into custody, according to a news release from the Oceanside Fire Department.
The police and fire departments have been partnering to investigate about 14 small vegetation fires believed to have been intentionally set in the Loma Alta neighborhood, northwest of El Camino Real and Oceanside Boulevard.
Authorities are reviewing evidence related to the fires, which began on or around July 30. The pattern and proximity of the incidents led investigators to implement targeted surveillance in the area.
At this time, investigators believe the suspect – they are not releasing any information about the individual – acted alone.
“This arrest is the result of outstanding collaboration between Oceanside police and fire investigators,” said Blake Dorse, Oceanside Fire Division Chief. “The swift and coordinated actions of both agencies have played a critical role in safeguarding our community.”
The investigation of the brush fires remains active.
