LA Arson Suspect Identified, Possibly Motivated by Deportation Battle

Officials this evening identified a man arrested after a series of 52 blazes in the Los Angeles area, and hailed the reserve deputy sheriff who apprehended him.

“Our long, four-day nightmare is over,” Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky told reporters.

Harry Burkhart, 24, was charged this afternoon with one count of arson of an inhabited dwelling, with more charges expected as the investigation proceeds, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa told reporters at a news conference featuring an array of local officials who teamed up to investigate the case.

“The residents of Hollywood and the city of West Hollywood may now resume the peace and safety they deserve,” Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca said. “A serial arsonist, I believe, has been caught.

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