Residents in the Sunland-Tujunga area can now breathe a sigh of relief as the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced the arrest of a suspected serial arsonist over the Memorial Day weekend. The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Guadalupe Resendiz, was taken into custody and was found to be experiencing homelessness at the time of his arrest.
The investigation began on May 23 when multiple vehicle fires were reported in the San Fernando Valley neighborhood. The LAPD, in collaboration with arson investigators from the Los Angeles Fire Department, worked diligently to address the series of suspicious fires.
Through surveillance footage and interviews with arson victims, investigators were able to identify a “very unique vehicle” believed to be linked to the suspect. An LAPD officer recognized the vehicle, which had been involved in a crash prior to the fires.
On May 28, while the LAPD was gathering additional surveillance footage, two more vehicle fires occurred. The following morning, investigators witnessed Resendiz setting two more vehicles on fire, leading to his immediate arrest.
The investigation ultimately connected Resendiz to a total of six vehicle fires. In response, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office charged him with six counts of arson, as well as a probation violation to ensure his continued custody.
The arrest of the suspected serial arsonist brings relief to the Sunland-Tujunga community, which had been living in fear due to the ongoing car fires. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the swift action taken by the LAPD demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents they serve.
