Temecula Man Arrested For Starting Massive Cranston Fire: CalFire

TEMECULA, CA — A Temecula man has been arrested on suspicion of starting the out-of-control Cranston Fire burning near Idyllwild, fire officials announced Wednesday night. And not only is the 32-year-old accused of starting the 4,700-acre fire Wednesday — but he's also accused of starting four other fires in Southwest Riverside County.

Brandon N. Mc Glover was arrested Wednesday. Riverside County Sheriff's Department records show he was booked on suspicion of five counts of arson on a structure, five counts of arson on land and three counts of maliciously setting a fire. His bail was set at $1 million.

Officials said that on Wednesday, "several local public safety agencies responded to a series of wildland fires."

"The fires occurred in several areas within Southwest Riverside County and Federal areas along State Highway 74 in the San Bernardino National Forest," the release stated.

RELATED: Cranston Fire Balloons To 4,700 Acres, Evacuations Expand

The fires were soon pegged as arson.

"CAL FIRE Peace Officers determined a suspect description and issued a crime bulletin to other local law enforcement agencies," Cal Fire said. "Based on the crime bulletin issued, the Hemet/San Jacinto Valley Gang Task Force located and detained Mc Glover."

McGlover was arrested in Hemet less than 20 minutes after the Cranston Fire started, according to police.

He was booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center in French Valley.

Officials said additional charges may be added as they continue their investigation.

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Jail booking photo courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff's Department