California State Parks announced the arrest of 60-year-old Gloria Lynn Mandich in connection with a brush fire that ignited a catastrophic wildfire in Los Angeles County. Officials have not yet verified whether the arson led to the enormous inferno. The wildfire has resulted in 10 fatalities and obliterated more than 10,000 structures throughout the area.
California is confronting multiple wildfires, intensified by fierce Santa Ana winds and dry conditions, resulting in extensive devastation. Thousands of acres have burned, prompting mass evacuations in regions such as Topanga State Park and Will Rogers State Historic Park.
Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency, and President Joe Biden sanctioned a significant disaster declaration.
Mandich was taken into custody on felony arson charges and booked into Ventura County Jail, where he is scheduled to appear in court. His arrest marks the second since the fire began on January 8. Authorities had previously apprehended another suspect, but following further investigation, the LAPD concluded there was not enough evidence to charge him with arson.
“After the interview and additional investigative steps, reviewing some extra evidence that was available, they concluded that there was not sufficient probable cause to arrest this individual for arson or suspicion of arson,” LAPD Assistant Chief Dominic Choi stated.
