Suspects arrested in connection with starting the Morris Fire

ARCADIA, Calif. — In the early morning hours of August 7, 2018, firefighters from the U.S. Forest Service and LA County Fire Dept. responded to a fire reported off Highway 39, near Morris Dam. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze at a quarter acre, using ground crews and night flying helicopters from the Forest and LA County.

The fire was called in to 911 by a passerby at approx. 2:58 a.m. The private citizen who reported the fire witnessed two individuals in a turnout near Morris Dam. The reporting party followed the suspect vehicle down the canyon, making note of the vehicle description, a white GMC pickup, and license plate. With the Assistance from Azusa PD and LA County Sheriff Dept., the suspect vehicle was located. Two individuals were taken into custody and booked into the San Dimas Sheriff Station. U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement has filed felony charges. The suspects are being held on $75,000 bail.

Thanks to the quick thinking and vigilance by the passerby, the fire was extinguished and suspects arrested. Although small, left unchecked this fire, had the potential to threaten life, property, and resources in the forest and nearby cities. Fire danger is “Very High” across the Angeles National Forest, one spark can start a fast-moving wildfire. Fire prevention is everyone’s responsibility, if you see something, say something.