UPDATE: A suspected arsonist has been arrested following a dramatic apartment fire in Redwood City early Saturday morning. The incident took place on the 1300 block of Marshall Street at 7:35 a.m., leaving three residents displaced but thankfully unharmed.
According to the Redwood City Police Department, 35-year-old Eliaser Hernandez-Valadez was taken into custody after he returned to the scene later in the day. Authorities confirmed that initial investigations indicated the fire may have been intentionally set.
“Investigators from the police and fire department learned the fire may have been intentionally set and a suspect was identified,”
stated the police department. The quick response from firefighters ensured all residents were safely evacuated from the building, and no injuries were reported.
The fire caused significant damage to three apartment units, prompting assistance from the American Red Cross for the affected residents. The organization is providing immediate support to those displaced by the incident.
Hernandez-Valadez now faces serious charges, including arson to an inhabited dwelling, reckless burning, and probation violation. He has been booked into the San Mateo County Jail as the investigation continues.
As this story develops, the Redwood City community is left grappling with the aftermath of this alarming event. Stay tuned for updates on the situation and the recovery efforts for those impacted.
