Arsonist arrested for alleged arson in downtown Los Angeles

A serial arsonist has been arrested after allegedly starting several devastating fires in downtown Los Angeles since July, according to fire officials.

Victor Marias, 31, is being held without bail after being taken into custody Thursday, jail records show. He was on active probation for setting fire to a building in the same area in August 2023.

Los Angeles Fire Department investigators believe he is responsible for a series of fires dating back to July 19, when they were called to Kohler Street between Seventh and Eighth Streets where they found a fire burning had expanded several commercial buildings.

It took firefighters more than five hours to extinguish the fire, resulting in one firefighter being injured, an LAFD statement said.

Investigators obtained surveillance footage of the arson, the statement said. This evidence was later linked to three other fires, also allegedly set by Marias.

The most recent fire he is associated with occurred on Willow Street on Thursday, and another fire occurred at the same location on September 22nd.

“In both cases, residents provided surveillance footage that showed the collection and lighting of flammable materials,” the statement said. “The assistance of witnesses within the community was critical to the identification and eventual apprehension of the suspect. Their willingness to step forward and actively protect their neighborhoods from harm is appreciated and commended.”

As their investigation continues, the LAFD asks anyone who may know more to contact them at [email protected].