Man Arrested In String Of Arson Fires In Novato

NOVATO, CA —A man was arrested Monday evening on suspicion of multiple counts of arson in Novato, police said.

Officers assisted the Novato Fire Protection District in responding to a report of a tree on fire in the 1500 block of Novato Boulevard.

Police discovered another fire in the creek area of Diablo Avenue and Novato Boulevard. Officers slowed the spread of the fire using extinguishers from their vehicles, officials said.

As fire crews worked to contain both blazes, officers searched the area and found a man lighting another fire on Front Street, police said. Officers detained the suspect, who was identified as John Davies, a 55-year-old transient.

Crews responded to the third blaze, and successfully contained and extinguished all three fires. No structures were damaged and no one was injured.

Davies was arrested and booked into Marin County Jail on suspicion of sparking all three fires.

"We would like to thank the Novato Fire Protection District and the community members who quickly reported the fires," the department said in a statement. "Remember if you see something, say something!"

Police reminded the public to "stay vigilant" and report suspicious activity, especially as a red flag warning is in effect until 8 a.m. Wednesday in Marin County.

Also see: Gusty Winds, Low Humidity Raise Risk Of Wildfires In Marin County