Crime & Safety
Man Arrested on Suspicion of Arson Brush Fire in East County
Witnesses report a man set the brush fire early Thursday morning near Old Highway 80.
A man was arrested early Thursday on suspicion of setting a small brush fire off Old Highway 80 in the East County, authorities said.
The fire near the intersection of Los Coches Road and Old Highway 80 in the Lakeside area was reported about 7:50 a.m., according to the California Highway Patrol. It was out half an hour later.
A witness reported seeing a man set the fire and gave deputies a detailed description, said San Diego County sheriff's Lt. Anthony Ray.
Find out what's happening in Santeewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Deputies searched the area and soon assisted the Lakeside Fire Department in arresting a man on suspicion of arson, Ray said.
The man was taken to a hospital after he developed trouble breathing, the lieutenant said. His name and age were not immediately released.
Find out what's happening in Santeewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
-City News Service
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.