Arson Suspect Arrested in Pollock Pines “Deep Fire”
POLLOCK PINES, CA — March 23rd 2026
“On March 21, 2026, CAL FIRE Law Enforcement Officers arrested Mark Mastin, 53, of Modesto, on suspicion of starting the Deep Fire in the Pollock Pines area of El Dorado County.
Mastin was booked into the El Dorado County Jail on charges of arson related to the Deep Fire, which was reported in the early morning hours of March 20 and burned approximately 2 acres.
On March 21, while mopping up the Deep Fire, CAL FIRE firefighters located a male subject near the fire area. Due to the suspicious circumstances, CAL FIRE Law Enforcement Officers were requested.
The individual, later identified as Mastin, claimed he had been disoriented in the area for the past two days. Firefighters assisted Mastin out of the canyon and provided a medical evaluation, along with food and water.
Following an interview, CAL FIRE Law Enforcement Officers determined Mastin was responsible for intentionally and recklessly igniting the vegetation fire. He was taken into custody and charged under California Penal Code 452(c), unlawfully causing a fire to a structure or forest land.
CAL FIRE urges the public to remain vigilant, maintain situational awareness, and report any suspicious activity. If you see something concerning, do not hesitate to notify authorities. To report suspicious fire activity, please call the secure Arson Hotline at 1-800-468-4408.
For questions related to the arrest of Mark Mastin, please contact the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office at (530) 621-6472.”
