Crime & Safety

UPDATE: Police Say Fire on Angela Street is Arson

Arson suspect is now under psychiatric observation.

Police have arrested a man on an attempted arson charge in connection with a fire yesterday morning on East Angela Street.

At 7:44 a.m. June 8, the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department responded to a bedroom fire at a residence on East Angela Street.

Police arrested Jose Martinez, 28, in connection with the fire.

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When police arrived at the scene, there were three children and three adults at the home.

The homeowner was trying to extinguish the fire with a garden hose.

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Martinez, who lives at the home, is the ex-boyfriend of the homeowner's granddaughter. He is also the father of the three children.

Two police officers who arrived at the scene detained Martinez. He told police "I started it."

Police said they also found a lighter in his pocket, which they believe was used to start the fire. The suspect was later placed on psychiatric hold and taken to John George Hospital in San Leandro.

Joe Testa, battallion chief, said there was smoke and flames in one bedroom of the house. Firefighters were able to put out the fire, and no one was hurt.

The house is currently uninhabitable.

Sgt. Robert Leong of the Pleasanton Police Department said Angela Street was closed for a short time on Tuesday.


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