Four Arrested in Arson Investigation of Old Town Newhall Fire

Four people face arson and conspiracy charges for the August blaze that gutted a historic district in Santa Clarita.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced the arrests on Thursday after serving search warrants at four locations. The suspects are John Wright, 47, and Jesus Figueroa, 54, both from Canyon Country, along with Cristian Leija, 43, and Antoinette Ruiz, 35, both from El Monte. Detectives identified the incident as a coordinated effort to burn down the buildings.

The fire broke out in the early hours of August 24 on the 24000 block of Main Street. It started inside an auto-body shop and spread to adjacent structures. The incident destroyed a boutique, a gastropub, and a theater. Authorities assessed the total property damage at approximately $13 million. The fire involved seven structures in the Old Town Newhall area.

Deputy Daniel Dominguez stated that Wright is being held on $500,000 bail. Figueroa and Leija are being held without bail. Jail records indicate that Ruiz is also being held without bail. The three men are scheduled to appear at the San Fernando Courthouse on November 2. The date for Ruiz’s court appearance has not been determined.

KTLA reported a second fire in late September near the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Market Street. This blaze occurred in the 24000 block of Railroad Avenue. Officials have not confirmed whether the September fire is connected to the August incident.

The investigation remains active. No specific motive has been released to the public. The sheriff’s arson/explosives unit is handling the case. Residents can provide information by calling (323) 881-7500.