California police made an arson-related arrest on Sunday, Jan. 12. Now, details have emerged about the immigration status of another man involved in a separate incident in the Los Angeles area on Thursday, Jan. 9.
A video showed police arresting Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva after residents chased him down and detained him. The residents claimed they saw Sierra-Leyva set fire to old Christmas trees and debris. His arrest comes amid the state’s ongoing struggle with severe and deadly wildfires, heightening tension and vigilance among residents.
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Authorities are still investigating the incident as a possible case of arson. However, Sierra-Leyva has not been charged due to a lack of evidence.
Sierra-Leyva is currently in custody on a felony probation violation, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Authorities did not provide details on his prior conviction.
NEW: Per ICE sources, the man seen in a viral video being subdued by residents & arrested by police w/ a blowtorch near the #KennethFire in West Hills is an illegal alien from Mexico named Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva. He is in custody on a probation violation & has NOT been charged…
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) January 13, 2025
Immigration and Customs Enforcement sources told Fox News and the New York Post that Sierra-Leyva is from Mexico and is in the U.S. illegally. The agency plans to request a detainer to involve federal authorities. However, California’s sanctuary law prohibits local law enforcement from collaborating with ICE.
The New York Post also reported that Sierra-Leyva has a criminal history, including an assault with a deadly weapon charge in 2023.
🚨 Arson Arrest🚨
— Irwindale Police Department (@IrwindalePolice) January 12, 2025
On Sunday, January 12, at approximately 12:30 PM, Los Angeles County Fire Engine #29 responded to a small brush fire near Rivergrade Road and the 605 Freeway. While on scene, LACOFD personnel observed a suspect actively lighting fires in the area. pic.twitter.com/avstxl0alg
The possible arson case comes after authorities arrested Ruben Montes on Sunday, Jan. 12, on suspicion of arson. Firefighters reported seeing him start brush fires near the Eaton Fire, the deadliest of the current wildfires in Los Angeles.
LAPD sources told Fox 11 that Sierra-Leyva may be connected to the Kenneth Fire near Calabasas. Authorities are also investigating that case as possible arson. Other fire causes in the area remain unclear as firefighters continue to battle the blazes and federal investigators search for answers.
