By Gina Yarbrough
Vista, CA–Authorities are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a man suspected of setting multiple fires in the North County this week, officials said.
On Thursday, Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report just before 4 p.m. of a brush fire near the intersection of La Tortuga Drive and Hacienda Drive in Vista, Sheriff’s Sergeant Anthony Portillo said in a news release.
Witnesses reported seeing a man starting the brush fires. Earlier in the day, deputies and the Vista Fire Department responded to another fire in the same area which was quickly extinguished.
The Oceanside Police Department also reported a man trying to start a fire approximately two miles away just before 8 p.m.
The Sheriff’s Bomb and Arson Unit has launched an investigation of the suspicious fires
Anyone with information on the incidents can call the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477. Crime Stoppers is offering up to a $1,000 reward to anyone with information that leads to an arrest in this case. Visit www.sdcrimestoppers.org for information on how to send web or mobile app tips.