Man, 48, Arrested in Connection with Fatal Fire in Riverside County
Investigation Underway
Deputies in Riverside County have arrested a man who allegedly started multiple fires earlier this week, one of which killed a person.
Report of Multiple Fires
A report of multiple fires came in late Monday afternoon around 4:45 p.m. in the 45000 block of State Highway 79 in the rural community of Aguanga.
Blaze Engulfs Travel Trailer and Vacant Ravine
“Multiple reporting parties advised that a travel trailer and a vacant ravine were engulfed in flames,” the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department stated.
Deputies Attempt to Evacuate Residents, Cal Fire Extinguishes Blaze
Upon arriving in the area, deputies attempted to evacuate all residents near the trailer fire as Cal Fire crews extinguished the blaze and began cleanup operations.
Remains of Person Located Inside Travel Trailer
While investigating, the remains of a person were located inside the trailer, officials said. Their identity is being withheld pending notification of next-of-kin.
Arrest Made
The following day, deputies were continuing their investigation when they received a report of a suspicious person near the intersection of State Highway 79 and State Highway 371, which is around the same area where the fires broke out.
Man Arrested and Charged
The man was later identified as 48-year-old Garett Preston Young of Aguanga. “Young had been identified as the subject possibly involved in the fatal fires that had occurred on Monday afternoon,” officials stated in a media release issued Wednesday. “Information was developed that led to the arrest of Young.”
Charges and Booking
He was booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center for homicide and additional arson-related charges.
Conclusion
The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional suspects are being sought. Anyone with further information surrounding the case is asked to contact Investigator T. Gilbert with the Central Homicide Unit by calling 951-955-1777. Information can also be relayed to Hemet Station Investigator R. Martinez by calling 951-791-3400.
FAQs
* What happened on Monday afternoon in Riverside County?
A report of multiple fires came in, one of which killed a person.
* Who was arrested in connection with the fire?
Garett Preston Young, 48, of Aguanga
* What were the charges against him?
Homicide and additional arson-related charges
* Is the investigation ongoing?
Yes, and no additional suspects are being sought.
