Serial arsonist arrested for setting series of fires in Sherman Oaks: police

LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Police Department announced the arrest of a man they believe to be responsible for a series of fires in the Sherman Oaks area.

Ricardo Villanueva, a 42-year-old from Van Nuys, was arrested Wednesday for an unrelated traffic violation. The officers identified Villanueva from a wanted flyer prepared by Major Crimes Division Detectives.

According to LAPD and LAFD, Villanueva was charged with arson for fires they believe he started on purpose in October.

A map provided by LAFD shows Villanueva’s alleged path of destruction along Moorpark Street and Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks. Several cars, dumpsters, and buildings sustained damage from the flames.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Arson suspected in series of fires that damaged business, vehicles in Sherman Oaks

"I just hope this is a warning for everybody that’s thinking about doing something like this," said Imari Reynolds, a resident. "It’s good that person will [be made an example of] for setting things on fire. [What he did] is wrong."

Several residents in the area expressed relief relating to the arrest.

"If he’s arrested and they don’t just turn around and release him, he at least will be away from being able to light the fires for a while," said Shari H, another resident.

This week, more suspicious fires occurred in the same general area of Sherman Oaks. Several vehicles and an apartment were destroyed, while businesses were also damaged.

Authorities are still investigating the fires from this week. It’s unknown if Villanueva could be involved with those.

"There is an ongoing investigation with the LAFD Arson Section and LAPD Major Crimes Division to determine if Villanueva is responsible for the spree of connected arson fires around December 17th of 2024," said Erik Scott from LAFD.