Oceanside Police Arrest Man Involved in 9 Arson Fires

Oceanside Police Officers have arrested a man believed to have set nine suspected arson fires that occurred over the weekend.

Messa Drive and Foussat Road

The first fire was located near Mesa Drive and Foussat Road. The fire burned about one acre of dry bush and came within 200 feet of nearby homes. As firefighters were wrapping things up with the first fire, a report of another fire came, this one about two miles away near Redwood Street. When fire fighters arrived at the scene, a total of six small fires were found in the area.

As fire fighters were dealing with the new set of fires, a report of two more fires were reported where the original fire occurred.

When fire fighters arrived at the original scene, they noticed a man riding away on a bicycle with a backpack containing a gas can and a lighter. Fire Officials released a description of the man over the radio. A short while later, the suspect was spotted by employees with a local Engine company.

Oceanside Police Officers responded and were able to take into custody Hansen Frederick after a search of his person by law enforcement, fire fighters and a Sheriff’s helicopter.

Fire officials say that the nine fires burned a total of three to four acres of brush but did not damage any structures.

Read More:

NBC San Diego- 9 Suspected Arson Fires Set in Oceanside

The San Diego Union Tribune- Gas Toting Arson Suspect Arrested