Arson suspect who burned tree said he ‘likes the smell of burning leaves,’ another said she ‘felt to wreak havoc’: LAPD

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — An arson suspect arrested Tuesday in Pacoima admitted he started a small fire that burned a tree “because he liked the smell of burning leaves,” according to Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell.

At a news conference Wednesday morning, McDonnell said officers responded around 5:15 p.m. on a radio call from a possible arsonist in the area of ​​Glenoaks and Van Nuys boulevards.

A citizen had extinguished the fire and detained the suspect, who was then detained by the police.

The suspect was charged on suspicion of arson. His name was not released.

Hours later, around 9:30 p.m., firefighters responded to multiple reports of a suspect setting several piles of trash on fire near the intersection of Vermont Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard in East Hollywood.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and officers took the unidentified suspect into custody, McDonnell said.

“The suspect admitted to setting several fires that day and stated that she enjoyed causing chaos and destruction,” the police chief said. She was reported for arson.

The two suspects were apprehended outside the fire areas of the Eaton and Palisades fires. There was no immediate indication that they were connected to the large fires burning in Los Angeles County.

“As we continue to manage this historic, catastrophic event, we want to express our gratitude to everyone who provided tips and remained vigilant in keeping the city safe,” McDonnell said.

Dozens of others have been arrested for looting, burglary and curfew violations or other violations. A person was arrested Tuesday night for impersonating a firefighter.

The DA’s office has begun charging some of those arrested

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman promised that the consequences would be “swift and significant” for anyone who violates the law.

Hochman said his office is also looking into concerns about price gouging.

Hochman called price gouging “particularly despicable” because offenders take advantage of desperate people who need a place to live.

Hochman said charity and insurance fraud have also been reported. He urged people to check all charities before donating to them and avoid sending cash or bitcoin.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.