UPDATE: A suspected arsonist was arrested in Redwood City following a devastating apartment fire that displaced three residents early Saturday morning. Firefighters rushed to the scene on the 1300 block of Marshall Street at 7:35 a.m., where authorities quickly determined that the fire may have been deliberately set.
Officials confirm that 35-year-old Eliaser Hernandez-Valadez was taken into custody after he returned to the scene later that evening. The Redwood City Police Department reported that fire investigators collaborated with local authorities to identify Hernandez-Valadez as a suspect in this alarming incident.
Thanks to swift action by emergency responders, all residents were safely evacuated, and fortunately, no injuries were reported. However, the fire caused significant damage to three apartment units, displacing three individuals who are now receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.
Hernandez-Valadez has been charged with arson to an inhabited dwelling, reckless burning, and probation violation. He is currently held at the San Mateo County Jail as the investigation continues.
Residents and local officials are left shaken by this incident, emphasizing the urgent need for community vigilance. As investigators work to uncover more details about the motives behind the fire, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Stay tuned for further developments on this story as it unfolds.
