Arson suspect arrested for Indio fire
UPDATE – 1:56 PM – The cause of the fire has been confirmed as arson, according to Cal Fire investigators. 40-year-old Frederick Guerra was arrested and booked into Indio Jail on arson charges.
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CAL FIRE firefighters contained a two-alarm commercial building fire in Indio early Thursday morning. It occurred on the 81700 block of Ave. 46.
According to fire crews, they received a call of the fire at 3:07 a.m.
Crews reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the 10,000 square foot strip mall. The fire was contained within an hour at 3:53 a.m. The building carried signs for businesses including Audio Dynami X Clothing, records, CD’s and DJ accessories, also Valley Barber Shop.
No injuries were reported and no one was found inside as crews searched. The building suffered significant smoke and fire damage but is not considered a total loss.
A security guard who worked at a nearby apartment complex saw the flames and said the building has was abandoned for some time and has had issues with transients getting in and out.
“In that empty building, there are two unlocked doors, and they can go in and out all night,” Roberto Cruz said. “It’s easy to go in.”
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Crews said the fire is considered suspicious due to witness reports of transient activity. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
One person was detained by Indio Police for possible involvement with the fire, according to crews.
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