Man Arrested for Arson in Apartment Fire, Charred Woman’s Body Discovered at Scene

Los Angeles: Yesterday, just before 4 p.m., the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) responded to an apartment fire in the 12200 block of Osborne Place.  Once at the location, firefighters could see the blaze had already been extinguished.  However, as they went about making sure the fire was completely out, they discovered the charred body of a woman.

LAFD arson investigators were then joined by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) homicide detectives to further investigate the scene.  Currently, the burned woman’s identification hasn’t yet been verified, and the cause of her death has yet to be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office.

However, LAPD detectives and LAFD arson investigators correlated information that has led to the identification and arrest of 37-year-old Pacoima resident John Edward Herreres for arson.  His motive for setting the fire remains unknown, and his bail has been set at $250,000, pending possible additional charges.

A full inquiry is being conducted in cooperation with LAFD arson investigators.  Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact LAPD Foothill Division Detectives Byers or Santana at 818-834-3115.  During off-hours and on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247).  Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on web tips.  When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.”  Tipsters may remain anonymous.