Hunt On For Person Who Siphoned Gas, Started Fire

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA – An individual who allegedly attempted on Tuesday night to steal gas from a Hertz rental car off Aviation Way and Airport Boulevard in Watsonville sparked a fire that caused at least $50,000 of damage to vehicles, according to police.

"It’s a growing crime trend in South Santa Cruz County," the Watsonville Police Department said, adding that "We’re still looking for the person behind this crime."

As the person tried stealing the gasoline, a fire sparked and fully engulfed a Ford Explorer, then the flames spread to another rental car and caused minor damage to a third vehicle, police said.

"Listen to what Sergeant Mish Radich has to say about the investigation and what our crime analyst, Jason Panick, says about this problem that’s gaining steam," the agency said.

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