Home / Crime and Justice / San Jose Arson Suspect Nabbed After Fiery Rampage
San Jose Arson Suspect Nabbed After Fiery Rampage
3 Feb
Summary
- An unhoused man arrested for at least 11 fires.
- 19 vehicles destroyed, causing community anger and concern.
- Technology, including public safety cameras, aided the arrest.

San Jose police have apprehended a 30-year-old unhoused man suspected of initiating at least 11 fires on January 21 and January 26. These incidents resulted in the destruction of 19 vehicles, sparking anger and concern among residents. The San Jose Fire Department, in collaboration with the police department, employed various tactics, including neighborhood canvassing and witness interviews, to identify the perpetrator.
The Real Time Intelligence Center played a crucial role, leveraging its public safety camera database to review surveillance footage across multiple locations. Mayor Matt Mahan highlighted how such technology contributes to making the city safer, noting a decrease in crime. Police are continuing their investigation to ascertain if the suspect is connected to the 24 total car fires reported over a six-week period in San Jose.




