Topline:
Authorities have released photos and a description of a person of interest in connection to the downtown fire that has shut down parts of the 10 Freeway.
Details: The person is described by authorities as a 30- to 35-year-old man about 6 feet tall, with black hair, and what appear to be visible burn marks on his left leg. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie, blue shorts and a black knee brace on his right leg.
Please read the attached crime alert. If you have any information, please contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal Arson and Bomb Unit at arsonbomb@fire.ca.gov or call the CAL FIRE Arson Hotline at 1-800-468-4408. pic.twitter.com/bSB8POYLk9
— CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) November 18, 2023
Arson investigation: Early on the morning of Nov. 11, a fire tore through a storage yard in downtown and shut down a section of the 10 Freeway. Gov. Gavin Newsom said Monday that the fire "was arson, and that it was done and set intentionally."
The traffic impact: The fire caused extensive damage to the structural supports on the freeway, shutting down a portion of the bridge from Alameda Street to Santa Fe Street. The stretch of freeway is a vital regional connector to downtown L.A. and the west side, handling 300,000 vehicles a day. The freeway shutdown has forced drivers to take detours and resulted in longer commutes.
What's next: The freeway is slated to reopen on Nov. 21, weeks before originally predicted.
How you can help: Anyone with information on the individual being sought can contact the CalFire Arson and Bomb unit at arsonbomb@fire.ca.gov or call the CalFire Hotline at 1-800-468-4408.
Go deeper: Damaged Section Of 10 Freeway Now Expected To Reopen Next Week Before Thanksgiving