Rash of Glendale fires may have been set by lone arsonist, police say
Glendale police say a rash of fires involving trash and abandoned furniture may be the work of a lone arsonist whose work could turn deadly.
Police have logged 17 fires involving trash and furniture left on sidewalks and in alleys in south Glendale neighborhoods since January. The fires, which have been mostly contained to the items set ablaze, frequently occur at night and in the early morning, the Glendale News-Press reported.
The latest fire, which occurred at 4:50 a.m. Saturday, involved a mattress and spread to a carport in the 400 block of East Harvard Street, causing significant damage and spurring fears that the arson incidents could turn deadly, police said.
“These are not lightning strikes,” said Lt. John Gilkerson. “These are man-made fires.”
Glendale Crime Stoppers, a local volunteer community organization, is offering a $1,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest.
Police have also stepped up their patrols in south Glendale.
Last month, police cadets handed out fliers to residents in the area, advising them about the fires and asking them to call authorities if they see any suspicious activity.
Police are also urging residents to report any illegal dumping or abandoned bulky items.
Anyone with information about the fire may call Det. Travis Goodreau at (818) 548-3127. To remain anonymous, call Glendale Crime Stoppers at (818) 507-7867.
Twitter: @VeronicaRochaLA
Veronica Rocha is a Times Community News staff writer.
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