In a striking incident last week in Apple Valley, a vigilant off-duty firefighter caught a Victorville man in the act of igniting multiple fires in a local field, leading to his immediate arrest, as confirmed by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
The episode unfolded around 5 p.m. on Thursday, near the intersection of Joshua Road and Little Beaver Road. The firefighter, while passing through, noticed smoke signals emerging from at least two distinct locations within the field, alongside a figure behaving suspiciously nearby. This observation prompted an urgent 911 call.
Swift action by a deputy resulted in the rapid apprehension of the suspect, as detailed in a statement from the sheriff’s department. Further investigation by the authorities unveiled several small areas within the deserted field that bore signs of recent burning.
Upon searching the suspect, deputies discovered a hidden knife in his pocket, adding a layer of concern to the incident. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Ronald Rito Reyes from Victorville, now faces charges of arson and possession of a concealed dirk or dagger. Following his arrest, Reyes was held on a $30,000 bail, awaiting his preliminary court hearing, as per the sheriff’s department and county booking records.
This alarming event underscores the critical role of community vigilance and the swift response of law enforcement in preventing potential disasters and ensuring public safety.