North Hollywood Arson Suspect Apprehended and Charged
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
LAFD Spokesperson: Brian Humphrey
Members of the Los Angeles Fire Department Arson-Counter-Terrorism Section have been investigating a series of intentionally set tree fires that damaged multiple vehicles outside of North Hollywood buildings in the early morning hours of Thursday, October 19, 2017.
On the morning of Monday, October 23, LAPD patrol officers from the North Hollywood Division arrested Angela McWhirter, 35, on an outstanding warrant. Officers recognized McWhirter from a crime bulletin previously distributed by LAFD arson investigators and she was taken into custody in the North Hollywood area.
Following her arrest, LAFD arson investigators were notified and continued their investigation, which linked McWhirter to the October 19 fires. Those fires damaged multiple trees and seven vehicles. Fortunately, there were no injuries or fatalities connected to the blazes.
McWhirter has been charged with three felony counts of arson by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. All questions regarding McWhirter’s current custody and court status should be directed to the District Attorney’s office.
“Arson is a serious crime and we have zero-tolerance for willful acts of destruction in the City of Los Angeles,” said LAFD Chief Ralph M. Terrazas. “We are thankful there were no injuries or lives lost as a result of these fires and we will always investigate and prosecute the serious crime of arson to the fullest extent of the law.”
