Arson probe: Sheriff to gather more evidence
Four suspects in the Newhall Old Town fire have been released as the district attorney's office demands additional details before deciding on charges.
By Alexander Novak ·
Four individuals arrested for the Newhall Old Town fire have been released without formal charges.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office returned the case to the Sheriff's Department on Monday. A spokesperson explained that the file was not ready for a final decision. The office sent it back to law enforcement to gather more evidence and clear up missing details.
Investigators originally arrested the four suspects over the weekend. They faced suspicion of arson and conspiracy related to the August 24 blaze.
The fire started inside an auto-body shop before spreading to an adjacent building. The flames consumed seven structures in total. The Los Angeles County Fire Department previously confirmed this origin point.
The destruction wiped out a boutique, a gastropub, and a theater in Santa Clarita. The damage is estimated at approximately $13 million.
The Sheriff's Department stated on Tuesday afternoon that it respects the district attorney's role in reviewing cases. The department said it remains committed to a thorough investigation and working toward accountability for the victims and affected businesses.
Source: Los Angeles Times
