Public Safety
Federal arson charge filed over 1,048-acre Bouquet Fire
A federal criminal complaint alleges a Santa Clarita man intentionally caused the October 3 wildfire in the Angeles National Forest.
Federal prosecutors charged Rodney Ameile Saba, 70, with arson involving federal property in connection with the Bouquet Fire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California announced October 9.
Charge: Arson involving federal property
Fire: Approximately 1,048 acres of federal land burned
Status: A criminal complaint is an allegation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty
Complaint describes alleged ignition
The complaint alleges that Saba warned a neighbor to expect a loud sound shortly before an explosion and the fire’s rapid spread behind his Bouquet Canyon Road residence. Prosecutors further allege that he later told investigators a discarded cigarette landed on fireworks and ignited them.
Investigators recovered a lighter, cigarettes, shotgun ammunition and an aerial mortar firework from the cabin, according to the Justice Department. U.S. Forest Service investigators concluded the fire was probably caused by fireworks after excluding lightning, campfires, debris burning and other potential causes.
Saba was arrested October 3 on related state charges and was expected to make an initial appearance in federal court in Los Angeles. If convicted of the federal charge, he could face up to 20 years in prison. No conviction has occurred, and the allegations remain to be tested in court.
The Forest Service is investigating with assistance from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Arson Explosives Detail.
Source: U.S. Attorney’s Office official release →
Earlier coverage: Bouquet Fire reaches 48% containment; evacuations remain →