Suspect Sought in Sherman Oaks Arson Series NR24339dc

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Major Crimes Division is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect responsible for arsons in Van Nuys Division.

On December 17, 2024, at 10:32 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to the 4700 block of Kester Avenue for a carport fire that exposed the adjacent apartment complex and destroyed four parked vehicles. The LAFD also responded to the 4600 block of Columbus Street for a structure fire and the 15000 block of Ventura Boulevard for a commercial building fire.

The Los Angeles Fire Department’s Arson Counter-Terrorism Section and the Los Angeles Police Department’s Major Crimes Division Detectives responded to investigate the series of fires. The Arson Investigators and Detectives determined that the fires were connected.

Major Crimes Division Detectives and Los Angeles Fire Arson Investigators have not identified the arson suspect and are actively seeking evidence to identify the suspect. A male suspect riding a bicycle was seen at the Kester Avenue apartment complex. He was seen riding his bike to the rear of the carport at approximately 10:30 p.m. The suspect gets off his bike and ignites a vehicle in the carport. At approximately 11:40 p.m., a suspect on a bicycle is seen in the area of the arson of the commercial building.

Anyone with information is urged to call Major Crimes Detective Seston at 213-486-7260. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1(877) LAPD-24-7 (877)527-3247. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P-3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.