The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has arrested a suspect believed to be responsible for starting the Kenneth Fire, a wildfire that erupted on Thursday afternoon in West Hills, California. The suspect, reportedly a homeless man in his 30s, was detained in Woodland Hills by concerned citizens before being taken into custody by the LAPD.
What we know so far about Los Angeles wildfire:
- The Kenneth Fire, which rapidly spread across over 800 acres, is one of several major wildfires that have ravaged the Los Angeles area, leaving a trail of destruction, The New York Post reported.
- These fires have tragically claimed at least 10 lives and caused billions of dollars in property damage across LA County.
- Approximately 130,000 Californians were placed under evacuation orders due to the multiple major wildfires, including the Palisades Fire, the Eaton Fire, and the Sunset Fire.
- Thousands of homes have been destroyed.
- Amid the devastation, law enforcement has also been dealing with opportunistic crime.
- Twenty individuals were arrested for looting homes abandoned by residents fleeing the fires.
- The response to the fires has been extensive, with firefighters working around the clock to contain the blazes.
- Mayor Karen Bass commended the tireless efforts of emergency responders, highlighting the collaboration in extinguishing fires in multiple areas including Pacoima and Hollywood.
- The swift response to the Kenneth Fire, aided by the aggressive firefighting efforts, prevented further significant spread of the flames into Ventura County.
- The LAPD is actively investigating the Kenneth Fire as a case of arson, pursuing all available leads to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
- The wildfires have resulted in immense suffering and loss of life.
- The response to the fires has not only involved emergency personnel but the community as well.
