Man with Blowtorch in LA will Not be Charged with Arson

By Eric, Contributor

​The latest on the case involving a man with a blowtorch in Los Angeles indicates that he has not been charged with arson despite being detained by local residents for allegedly attempting to start fires. The incident occurred in the Woodland Hills neighborhood where the man was seen carrying what was described as a large propane tank or a flamethrower and trying to light fires, including old Christmas trees and garbage cans.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) initially could not confirm if the detained man was directly linked to the ongoing wildfires, such as the Kenneth Fire, which started on the same day. Despite the public's reaction and the man's actions, the LAPD stated there was not enough probable cause to charge him with arson or suspicion of arson after interviews and further investigation. He was, however, arrested on a felony probation violation.

The Kenneth Fire, which was being investigated as an arson case, has led to significant damage, burning over 900 acres, and has affected areas close to celebrity enclaves, prompting evacuations and widespread community concern. Public sentiment, as echoed on platforms like X, shows frustration and disbelief over the LAPD's decision not to charge the man with arson, given the circumstances under which he was detained.

This situation has sparked debate over the handling of such incidents, especially during a time when Los Angeles is dealing with multiple devastating wildfires. The fires have caused significant disruption, with mandatory evacuation orders in some areas, and have been attributed to at least 10 deaths, with extensive property damage reported.