UPDATE: A suspected arsonist has been arrested following a dramatic apartment fire in Redwood City on November 1, 2023. Firefighters rushed to the scene on the 1300 block of Marshall Street at 7:35 a.m., responding to reports of flames engulfing the building.
Authorities swiftly identified the suspect as 35-year-old Eliaser Hernandez-Valadez, a resident of Redwood City. Remarkably, he returned to the scene later in the evening, prompting his immediate arrest by the Redwood City Police Department. “Investigators from the police and fire department learned the fire may have been intentionally set and a suspect was identified,” police reported.
Fortunately, all residents were safely evacuated, and no injuries have been reported. However, the fire caused significant damage to three apartment units, displacing three individuals. The victims are currently receiving crucial support from the American Red Cross.
Hernandez-Valadez now faces serious charges, including arson to an inhabited dwelling, reckless burning, and probation violation. He has been booked into the San Mateo County Jail as the investigation continues.
This incident has raised concerns among local residents about safety and security in their community. As authorities work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the fire, all eyes will be on the outcomes of this case.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
