Key Takeaways
- Jose Arredondo, 57, arrested for murder and arson after an encampment fire killed a man in San Diego's Mountain View neighborhood.
- The fire was intentionally set on June 28 at 900 S. 45th St., and the victim died the next day.
- Witnesses reported seeing a man in his 60s leaving the scene as the fire started.
- Police say the incident appears targeted and poses no ongoing public threat.
Introduction
San Diego police have arrested a 57-year-old man in connection with a deadly encampment fire that claimed a life in the Mountain View neighborhood. The June 28 blaze, ruled arson by investigators, led to the victim's death at a hospital the following day.
Arrest and Charges
Jose Arredondo was taken into custody Monday in the 4100 block of Newton Avenue. He is being held at San Diego County Jail on suspicion of murder and arson, according to the San Diego Police Department. The Metro Arson Strike Team determined the fire was intentionally set.
Incident Details
At 10:23 p.m. Saturday, dispatchers received a report of an encampment fire at 900 S. 45th St. Officers arrived to find a large fire on the sidewalk and a man suffering from severe burns. San Diego Fire-Rescue extinguished the blaze and treated the victim, who later died Sunday. His name is being withheld pending family notification.
Investigation and Public Safety
Witnesses told police they saw a man in his 60s leaving the area as the fire started. Acting Lt. David Garren stated, 'This appears to be a targeted incident, and there is no indication that there is any ongoing public safety threat.' The SDPD Homicide Unit is leading the investigation.
Local California Context
The Mountain View neighborhood is a residential area in southeastern San Diego, part of Stanislaus County. Encampment fires have been a recurring concern in the region, highlighting ongoing challenges with homeless safety and arson risks.
Conclusion
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Homicide Unit at 619-531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477. The case remains under active investigation.