Los Angeles County deputies arrested four people for an arson that caused $13 million in damages along Santa Clarita's Main Street.
The suspects were booked for arson and conspiracy:
The LA County Sheriff's Department said the group started a fire in the 24000 block of Main Street in Santa Clarita, known as Old Town Newhall, early on Aug. 24.
The blaze destroyed seven buildings, all local businesses.
"I am extremely proud of the dedication, professionalism, and relentless efforts of our Arson and Explosives Detail investigators," Capt. Robbie Royster said. "Since the day of the fire, they have worked tirelessly to uncover the facts and pursue every investigative lead. Today's developments are a testament to their hard work and commitment to holding those responsible accountable."
A day after the fire, the Santa Clarita City Council pledged to quickly rebuild Old Town Newhall.
"We're Santa Clarita. We're not going to take five years to rebuild," Councilman Bill Miranda said in August.
On Friday, LASD deputies said Wright owned Gary's Auto Collision Center, where the fire originated. Public records show that he also owned Halsey's Auto Center, which caught fire last year in Canyon Country.
"That's kind of what we're hearing. That there's maybe a trail of some interesting stories regarding the auto body shop," said Cassidy Marriott.
Court records show that the property owner tried to evict Wright from the business in May for owing more than $51,000 in rent.
Some businesses still operate in the area, and owners say everything has been different since the fire broke out.
"The economy, as we all know, has already been difficult, and with what has happened here, truly, there is zero to no foot traffic at all," said Leslie Bess, who owns JC and Me, a faith-based boutique. "It's very unfortunate and sad that people would do something so horrific to gain something for themselves."
Anyone with information on the case is urged to contact LASD's Arson/Explosives Unit at (323) 881-7500. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477 or through their website, lacrimestoppers.org.
