Man Accused of Starting Fire While Smoking Crack

Police arrestd a man early Saturday suspected of igniting a South-Central Los Angeles apartment fire while he smoked crack cocaine.

Police believe that the actions of Charles Golden, 39, started the blaze that displaced 30 adults and 29 children from the building in the 4200 block of South Hoover Street. He was held at the Los Angeles Police Department’s Southwest station on suspicion of arson of an inhabited building.

“We have (crack abusers) starting fires al the time,”said LAPD Lt. Rick Papke. “They just get careless with their lighters.”

Five residents suffered minor injuries during the 1:30 a.m. blaze when they leaped from the two-story, 20-room building. Five suffered minor smoke inhalation. The injured were treatd at area hospitals.

Firefighters raised ladders to rescue other residents, who were taken to a Red Cross shelter established for them at nearby Adams Middle School.

Golden was arrested on the sidewalk as he watched the flames that destroyed three units and collapsed part of the roof.

More than 80 firefighters put the blaze out in 33 minutes, said Los Angeles Fire spokesman Bob Collis.

Most of the victims are poor and need aid, said Red Cross spokesman Mike Powers. “In the short term we’re giving them food, clothing and counseling,” he said. “In the long term we will provide any who cannot find a place to stay temporary housing vouchers.”