Arson Suspect Arrested In Santa Monica: Police

SANTA MONICA, CA — Santa Monica Police say they have arrested a man in connection with several arson fires downtown.

Police said officers were called to investigate multiple dumpster and trash can fires on Sunday morning. A witness to the fires gave officers a description of the suspect.

Police located Jonathan Powell, 28, who has no fixed address, around 3:45 a.m. according to a news release. Powell ran from officers but was soon arrested in the 400 block of Arizona, police said.

Officers found several lighters in Powell's pocket, a news release said. He was arrested for arson and delaying arrest.

Police believe Powell is connected to at least six arson fires, according to a news release.

Santa Monica police ask anyone with more information about the fires to contact the Criminal Investigation Division at (310) 458-8451 or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at (310) 458-8426.