A Van Nuys man who allegedly set a series of vehicle and structure fires in the Sherman Oaks area in October was in custody Thursday, authorities said.
Ricardo Villanueva, 42, was detained by patrol officers on an unrelated traffic violation on Wednesday, and was arrested in connection with arson fires that were reported about 10:30 p.m. on Oct. 20 near Ventura Boulevard and Kester Street, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
LAPD Media Relations told City News Service that Villanueva is not believed to be the suspect who is wanted for setting at least three fires earlier this week in the same general area in Sherman Oaks.
“The officers identified Villanueva from a wanted flyer prepared by Major Crimes Division detectives,” an LAPD statement said. “Major Crimes Division Detectives arrested Villanueva for the arson from October 20, 2024.”
Villanueva was booked on suspicion of arson of a structure and arson of personal property, and his bail was set at $230,000.
Anyone with information on the case was urged to call Major Crimes Division detectives at 213-486-7260. Tipsters may also call 877-LAPD-247, or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS. They may also use the website www.lacrimestoppers.org.