Wildlife preserve fires investigated as potential arson; 8 fires reported in a month

LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles police are investigating a series of recent fires at the White Point Nature Preserve along San Pedro’s coastline.

"What people are lighting on fire, part of an arson attack, is some of the non-native grass material that burns," said Adrienne Mohan, Executive Director of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy.

The nature preserve is an almost hidden, 100-acre outdoor oasis located at 1600 West Paseo del Mar. Within the last month, they’ve reported at least eight suspicious fires on the non-profit’s property.

Firefighters and law enforcement are currently investigating the fires as possible arson.

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"We’ve been very lucky it hasn’t been more of a larger landscape fire," said Mohan. "We’ve been reporting these issues and not getting a whole lot of traction or response to figure out ways to intercept it."

So far, the fires have all taken place at night and have been relatively small. However, on Dec. 26th, three portable restrooms were destroyed by flames on the property.

Because of dry brush in the area, nearby residents worry a fire could grow out of control and impact homes.

"We’ve just gotten lucky [so far]," said Odile Farrell, who lives nearby. "We’re just one spark away from a potential disaster."

Strong Santa Ana winds are being forecast across the region next week, increasing concerns and urgency in the area.

"I’m worried that the whole nature preserve will burn down," said Farrell. "Also, we could lose our home and everything."

Los Angeles City Councilman Tim McOsker’s District 15 covers the area. He’s recently been to the location to paint over graffiti and help investigate the fires.

"It’s really distressing to have so many fires," said McOsker.

According to McOsker, they’re increasing police patrol in the area by "land, air, and sea".  He’s calling on authorities to patrol from boats at the nearby harbor, using drones, and even LAPD helicopters.

"Because we’re at the end of the road, we’re often forgotten about as far as enforcement goes," said Mohan.

The non-profit has game cameras setup, typically used to record wildlife, now being used in hopes of catching whoever could be responsible for the recent fires.

A town hall meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 6th at 434 W. Sixth Street to discuss the issue. Residents are encouraged to attend.

"Whatever the government and authorities can do to protect this place would be awesome," said Farrell.