Multiple Fires Spark Investigation
Ontario Mills mall faced an abrupt closure on Friday after a series of alarming fires struck various stores within its premises. Local authorities and fire crews jumped into action following reports of a suspicious individual setting fires inside the shopping center around 10:30 a.m.
According to Battalion Chief Scot Roeber from the Ontario Fire Department, firefighters discovered several suspicious fires located in close proximity to each other. “All of those fires were suspicious, and all of those fires have been extinguished,” he stated.
Arrest Made as Investigation Unfolds
While responding to the fires, officers apprehended a man inside one of the stores. Identified as 28-year-old Luis Gallegos Jr. from Rancho Cucamonga, he was taken into custody amid the ongoing crisis. Authorities reported that force was necessary to subdue Gallegos during the arrest, and he was subsequently treated at a hospital before being booked for felony arson.
Sadly, one officer also suffered injuries and required medical attention as a result of the incident. Currently, the motive behind the arson remains unclear.
Although specific details regarding which stores were affected are still pending, eyewitness footage revealed flames emanating from the popular True Religion store. Estimates concerning the damages caused by the fires have yet to be determined.
As investigations proceed, officials remained at the scene, ensuring safety and gathering evidence. Later in the evening, the mall reopened, but most shops chose to hold off on business until the morning, prioritizing safety for all customers and staff.
This incident comes on the heels of a massive warehouse fire in Ontario just days prior, where an employee was arrested for allegedly igniting the blaze. However, authorities clarified that there appears to be no connection between the two incidents.
This is an evolving story, and updates will be provided as new information surfaces.
