Santa Rosa police have arrested five people in connection with separate arson incidents as investigators continue looking into a series of vegetation and suspicious fires reported across the city since last month. Authorities say more than 30 fires have been investigated, with at least 17 believed to have been intentionally set.
Investigation
According to the Santa Rosa Police Department, the fires have occurred in several locations throughout the city, including the Joe Rodota Trail, Prince Memorial Greenway, Santa Rosa Creek Trail, and College Creek Trail.
Investigators are continuing to determine whether any of the five suspects may be connected to additional unsolved fires.
Police said they do not currently believe the suspects worked together.
Arrests
The first arrest involved Adan Alvarez-Florez, who was taken into custody on July 7.
Police allege he set paperwork on fire near tall dry grass in the area of West Eighth Street and Simpson Avenue.
A second suspect, Wuilton de Leon Reyes, was arrested in connection with two fires reported on July 13 near A Street. Investigators said the fires involved a fence and a backyard couch.
Additional Cases
Jason Cass was arrested in connection with a grass fire that occurred on July 18 near West College Avenue.
Another suspect, Corey Bynum, was arrested following a July 20 fire on Seventh Street.
According to police, that fire damaged decorative plants and a plastic storm drain grate after someone’s property was set on fire.
Jessica Lucas became the fifth person arrested after a grass fire was reported near Ninth and Morgan streets around 9 a.m. on Friday.
Police said two witnesses observed the suspect allegedly starting the fire before officers made the arrest.
| Suspect | Date | Location | Alleged Incident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adan Alvarez-Florez | July 7 | West Eighth Street and Simpson Avenue | Paperwork set on fire near dry grass |
| Wuilton de Leon Reyes | July 13 | A Street | Two fires involving a fence and couch |
| Jason Cass | July 18 | West College Avenue | Grass fire |
| Corey Bynum | July 20 | Seventh Street | Fire damaged plants and storm drain grate |
| Jessica Lucas | Friday | Ninth and Morgan streets | Grass fire witnessed by two people |
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active as detectives work to determine whether the five arrests are linked to additional unsolved fires throughout Santa Rosa.
Police continue reviewing evidence from the more than 30 reported fires and are asking the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity involving fire or smoke.
The suspects face allegations, and all are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
FAQs
How many people were arrested?
Five people were arrested in separate arson investigations.
How many fires are being investigated?
Police have investigated more than 30 fires across Santa Rosa.
How many fires are believed to be intentional?
Investigators believe at least 17 fires were intentionally set.
Did police say the suspects worked together?
No. Police do not believe the suspects acted together.
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes. Detectives are examining possible links to other fires.
