ARREST OF WILDLAND ARSON SUSPECT FOR SEPT. 6 FIRE IN SPRING VALLEY AREA
November 3, 2011 (La Mesa) -- Based on an extensive joint investigation by three agencies, an arrest was made and search warrant served at a residence in the unincorporated area of La Mesa early this morning. Michael Joseph Morris, 51 of La Mesa was arrested and booked into county jail on one count of arson to Forest Land and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On September 6, the San Miguel Fire District and neighboring fire agencies responded to a vegetation fire that was threatening homes on the hillside above the 8700 block of Broadway in the unincorporated area of La Mesa/Spring Valley. Summer temperatures were in the high 90’s, dry fuel conditions and the steep hillside contributed to the fire spreading toward the homes. San Miguel Fire investigators determined the fire to be arson.
Investigators requested assistance from the San Diego Sheriff’s Department and a joint investigation was conducted by San Miguel Fire, San Diego County Sheriff’s Bomb/Arson Squad and Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF) Investigators.
The investigation is ongoing.
For additional information reguarding this case please contact:
Detective Anthony Portillo
San Diego Sheriff’s Department
858-565-5200