A man has been arrested on suspicion of starting the Kenneth fire, one of several devastating wildfires currently wreaking havoc in Los Angeles.
A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with the Kenneth Fire, one of several wildfires devastating Los Angeles. The blaze erupted Thursday in the Pacific Palisades area, consuming over 960 acres. Residents detained the suspect, reportedly holding a propane tank, near the fire’s origin point before police arrived. Authorities are treating the incident as a possible arson case.
The Kenneth Fire is among five active wildfires in the region. The largest, the Palisades Fire, has burned nearly 20,000 acres and is only 6% contained. The Eaton Fire in Altadena has consumed over 13,000 acres, while smaller fires, including the Hurst and Lidia fires, remain challenging to control. Combined, these fires have caused at least ten fatalities, with officials warning the toll may rise.
Thousands of residents have been displaced, and countless homes destroyed. LA Sheriff Robert Luna likened the devastation to “a bomb was dropped.” Community members, including celebrities like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have mobilized aid, donating supplies and encouraging others to assist evacuees.
Mandy Moore shared images of her Altadena property, partially destroyed in the Eaton Fire, expressing gratitude that parts of her home remain standing. National organizations, including the Red Cross and CAL FIRE, are providing support, while President Joe Biden has pledged federal assistance to cover firefighting costs for 180 days.
Economic damages from this wildfire season are estimated to exceed $150 billion. Officials have urged vigilance as dry, windy conditions persist, emphasizing compliance with evacuation orders and reporting suspicious activity.
The fires have sparked widespread calls for aid and accountability. As investigations into the Kenneth Fire continue, authorities and first responders remain focused on containing the blazes and supporting affected communities.