Homeless man with ‘flamethrower’ busted on suspicion of arson near LA’s Kenneth Fire after residents detain him
Update:
Laura Ingraham is reporting Miguel Mercado Vasquez the guy with the blowtorch is illegal. You probably wouldn’t hear that from any other news source.
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A homeless man has been busted on suspicion of arson close to where one of the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles broke out — after brave locals tackled him as he used what looked like a “flamethrower.”
The unidentified suspect was seen riding around Woodland Hills on a bicycle on Thursday afternoon setting fire to several old Christmas trees and garbage cans at the same time as the Kenneth Fire started, locals said.
Renata Grinshpun told KTLA she was in her backyard when she heard a car screech to a stop and a man yelling, “Neighbors, he’s trying to start a fire! Call 911!’”
One person has been taken into custody in connection to the Kenneth Fire, which broke out Thursday in West Hills, Calif., according to reports. AP
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The wind whips embers while a firefighter battles the fire in the Angeles National Forest near Mt. Wilson as the wildfires burn in the Los Angeles area, during the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, January 9, 2025. REUTERS
She saw the suspect holding a large “propane tank or a flamethrower” — which others described as a blowtorch — as he tried to torch debris in the street.
Neighbors jumped into action and cornered the man as he tried to ride off, as caught in part in a video — with one man demanding: “Put it down!”
“We really banded together as a group,” Grinshpun told KTLA. “A few gentlemen surrounded him and got him on his knees. They got some zip ties, a rope and we were able to do a citizens’ arrest.”
A male arson suspect was arrested in Woodland Hills as the nearby Kenneth Fire ignited in the Calabasas area on Jan. 9, 2025. Citizen
(José Illegal Garcia)
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A map of Southern California where fires have broken out around Los Angeles and San Diego. fire.ca.gov
One witness told Fox 11 that the suspect was “very focused on moving forward” with what the described as being more like a blowtorch.
“He was like, ‘I can’t stop. I can’t stop. I’m not putting this down. I’m doing this,'” the witness said.
“And we’re like, ‘We can’t be doing that right now.'”
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A firefighter sets a backburn in front of the advancing Kenneth Fire in the West Hills section of Los Angeles. AP
The LAPD confirmed an arson investigation was launched.
Asked if the Kenneth Fire was started by an arsonist, LAPD Senior Lead Officer Sean Dinse told KTLA: “At this time, that’s what we believe. It’s being investigated as a crime.”
However, referring to the arrest, the LAPD stated on X late Thursday: “We CANNOT confirm any connection to any fire by this suspect at this time.”
The Los Angeles Fire Department initially issued mandatory evacuation orders for the area known as Hidden Hills, but downgraded that to mere warnings, according to the outlet. AP
The suspect is believed to be homeless. LAPD confirmed that he was arrested and taken to the department’s Topanga station.
No charges appear to have been pressed.
The Kenneth Fire sparked just after 2:30 p.m. and has since exploded to 960 acres and continues to rip through Ventura County with 0% containment as of Friday morning.
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A helicopter drops water on the Kenneth Fire in the West Hills of Los Angeles on Jan. 9, 2025. AP
The Los Angeles Fire Department initially issued mandatory evacuation orders for the area known as Hidden Hills, but downgraded that to warnings, Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley said in an update Thursday night.
At least 20 people were arrested Wednesday and Thursday morning for looting homes damaged or destroyed by the catastrophic wildfires ripping through the City of Angels, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Five separate fires sparked Tuesday morning, and days later have ravaged nearly 30,000 acres (47 square miles) in Los Angeles County, causing mass destruction and evacuations.
Firefighters battle the Kenneth Fire as flames rise in the air. AP
Some 130,000 Californians have been under evacuation orders from the multiple major fires, which include the Palisades Fire west of Los Angeles, the Eaton Fire north of Pasadena and the Sunset Fire in the Hollywood Hills.
The largest blaze, the Palisades Fire, has burned nearly 20,000 acres alongside the coast and destroyed more than 5,000 homes and structures in its path.
The out-of-control Eaton Fire has now destroyed or damaged between 4,000 and 5,000 homes as the growing blaze exploded to 13,690 acres on Thursday, officials said.
The cause of the five fires, three of which were completely un-contained, remain unknown and are under investigation.
Jason Carter's eulogy at his grandfather, Jimmy Carter's, funeral has won huge plaudits
Hate to admit it. Watched Jimmy Carter's grandson Jason Carter give the eulogy. Brought tears to my eyes. Jimmy Carter mostly stunk as a president. But he really shined when he left the White House!
159 House Democrats voted Tuesday against legislation titled the Laken Riley Act that would require federal immigration authorities to detain illegal migrants who commit theft-related crimes in the U.S and would also allow states to sue the Department of Homeland Security for harm caused to their residents because of illegal immigration.
The legislation ended up passing the House in a 264-159 vote with every Republican voting in favor of it. 48 Democrats ended up voting in favor of the bill. It will now head to the Senate. After the vote, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson released a statement calling out the 159 Democrats who voted against the Laken Riley Act.
“Laken Riley was brutally murdered by an illegal alien that President Biden and the Democrats let into this country with their open border policy. It is hard to believe after countless horrific stories like Laken’s, ANY House Democrats would vote against deporting illegal aliens who commit violent crimes against American citizens,” Speaker of the House Mike Johnson said in a statement.
“But 159 just did, demonstrating some Democrats have ignored the loud and clear message from voters in this election who demanded secure borders, the deportation of violent illegal aliens, and laws that put the safety and security of the American people first,” Johnson added.
dir="ltr">159 Democrats just voted AGAINST the Laken Riley Act.
They voted AGAINST detaining and deporting criminal illegal aliens, and putting Americans’ safety first.
Democrats have YET AGAIN ignored the demands of the American people for safety and security.— Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) January 7, 2025
U.S. House approves Laken Riley Act over opposition from majority of Democrats
The flood of "Trump-fearing" American liberals/progressives sneaking across the border into Canada has intensified in the past week. The Republican presidential win is prompting an exodus among left-leaning Americans who fear they'll soon be required to hunt, pray, pay taxes, and live according to the Constitution. Canadian border residents say it's not uncommon to see dozens of sociology professors, global-warming activists, and "green" energy proponents crossing their fields at night.
"I went out to milk the cows the other day, and there was a Hollywood producer huddled in the barn," said southern Manitoba farmer Red Greenfield, whose acreage borders North Dakota . "He was cold, exhausted and hungry, and begged me for a latte and some free-range chicken. When I said I didn't have any, he left before I even got a chance to show him my screenplay, eh?"
In an effort to stop the illegal aliens, Greenfield erected higher fences, but the liberals scaled them. He then installed loudspeakers that blared Rush Limbaugh reruns across the fields, but they just stuck their fingers in their ears and kept coming. Officials are particularly concerned about smugglers who meet liberals just south of the border, pack them into electric cars, and drive them across the border, where they are simply left to fend for themselves after the battery dies. "A lot of these people are not prepared for our rugged conditions," an Alberta border patrolman said "I found one carload without a single bottle of Perrier water, or any gemelli with shrimp and arugula. All they had was a nice little Napa Valley cabernet and some kale chips. When liberals are caught, they're sent back across the border, often wailing that they fear persecution from Trump high-hairers.
Rumors are circulating about plans being made to build re-education camps where liberals will be forced to drink domestic beer, study the Constitution, and find jobs that actually contribute to the economy.
In recent days, liberals have turned to ingenious ways of crossing the border. Some have been disguised as senior citizens taking a bus trip to buy cheap Canadian prescription drugs. After catching a half-dozen young vegans in blue-hair wig disguises, Canadian immigration authorities began stopping buses and quizzing the supposed senior citizens about Perry Como and Rosemary Clooney to prove that they were alive in the '50s. "If they can't identify the accordion player on The Lawrence Welk Show, we become very suspicious about their age," an official said.
Canadian citizens have complained that the illegal immigrants are creating an organic-broccoli shortage, are buying up all the Barbara Streisand CD's, and are overloading the internet while downloading jazzercise apps to their cell phones.
"I really feel sorry for American liberals, but the Canadian economy just can't support them," an Ottawa resident said. "After all, how many art-history majors does one country need?”
Tim Walz? Hunter Biden would have a better chance!!!
photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 including Jon Ossoff Wes Moore Gretchen Whitmer Gavin Newsom Mark Cuban Josh Shapiro
Joe Raedle/Getty Images; Andrew Harnik/Getty Images; ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images; Sheila Fitzgerald/shutterstock; Brian Fluharty/Getty Images
It's never to early to start talking about the next presidential election, right?
Where presidential politics is concerned, there’s no time like the present to begin jockeying for the 2028 nomination, particularly as the Democrats begin their search for the next leader of the party when President Joe Biden exits on January 20.
What follows are the early prospects, with some tried and true names and some surprises. Hang on! It’s going to get bumpy for the next four years.
Pete Buttigieg
Pete Buttigieg photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Kent Nishimura/Getty Images
Bio: Pete Buttigieg, the outgoing U.S. Secretary of Transportation and former mayor of South Bend, Ind., is known for his intellect, military service, and forward-thinking leadership. A Rhodes Scholar and veteran, he has gained national recognition for his policy acumen and effective communication. Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign demonstrated his appeal across diverse demographics, highlighting his pragmatism and focus on unity.
Why a Top Contender: Buttigieg’s ability to articulate complex policies and his proven appeal to younger and suburban voters make him a strong contender. His extensive federal experience and groundbreaking role as the first out gay Senate-confirmed Cabinet member resonate with voters valuing diversity and inclusivity.
Josh Shapiro
Josh Shapiro photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
Bio:Josh Shapiro, the governor of Pennsylvania, has built a reputation as a pragmatic, problem-solving leader. Before becoming governor, he was the state’s attorney general, where he took on high-profile cases, including the Catholic Church abuse scandal. Shapiro’s governance focuses on bipartisanship and delivering results for working families.
Why a Top Contender: Shapiro’s success in flipping key districts in Pennsylvania — a critical swing state — shows his ability to appeal to moderates and independents. His focus on kitchen-table issues, coupled with his executive and legal experience, positions him as a relatable and electable candidate for the national stage.
Jamie Raskin
Jamie Raskin photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Kent Nishimura/Getty Images
Bio: Jamie Raskin, a U.S. representative from Maryland, is renowned for his constitutional expertise and impassioned advocacy for democracy. A former constitutional law professor, Raskin was lead impeachment manager during Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial. He is also celebrated for his eloquence and resilience in facing personal tragedy. He will likely become the ranking member of the powerful House Judiciary Committee, and a leading voice confronting the Trump administration.
Why a Top Contender: Raskin’s moral clarity and dedication to democratic principles have garnered admiration across the political spectrum. His ability to inspire and mobilize progressive voters while remaining firmly rooted in constitutional values makes him a compelling figure for the 2028 Democratic nomination.
Gretchen Whitmer
Gretchen Whitmer photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images
Bio:Gretchen Whitmer, the governor of Michigan, has emerged as a national leader with her pragmatic approach to governance. Known for her resilience and "fix the damn roads" mantra, Whitmer successfully navigated crises like the COVID-19 pandemic while advancing progressive policies in a battleground state.
Why a Top Contender: Whitmer’s record of winning tough elections in Michigan, a pivotal state, demonstrates her appeal to working-class voters, who will be a key constituency in 2028. Her strong executive experience, focus on infrastructure, and ability to connect with voters in the Midwest make her a formidable contender for the Democratic nomination.
Wes Moore
Wes Moore photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
Bio:Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, is a dynamic leader and Rhodes Scholar with a diverse background as a combat veteran, nonprofit executive, and best-selling author. His story of overcoming adversity and his focus on economic opportunity resonate deeply with voters seeking fresh leadership.
Why a Top Contender: Moore’s inspirational life story and his ability to build coalitions across racial and socioeconomic lines make him a rising star. His charisma, innovative policies, and focus on uniting Americans position him as a strong contender for the Democratic ticket in 2028.
Tim Walz
Tim Walz photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
Bio: Tim Walz, the former Democratic vice presidential nominee, is the governor of Minnesota, a former teacher, and a National Guard veteran who brings a pragmatic, results-driven approach to leadership. As a governor, he has championed education, health care, and economic reforms, earning a reputation for working across party lines.
Why a Top Contender: Walz’s ability to connect with rural and urban voters alike, combined with his experience governing a politically diverse state, makes him an appealing candidate. His Midwestern roots and focus on consensus-building could help unify the party and attract swing voters in 2028.
Ruben Gallego
Ruben Gallego photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Greg Nash/Pool/Getty Images
Bio:Ruben Gallego, the U.S. senator-elect from Arizona, and former U.S. Representative, is a Marine Corps veteran and outspoken advocate for progressive policies. Representing a key swing state, Gallego has focused on immigration reform, veterans’ affairs, and economic equity, earning respect as a fiery and principled legislator.
Why a Top Contender: Gallego’s Latino heritage and military background help him connect with diverse voters. His focus on progressive values and appeal in Arizona, a crucial battleground, position him as a fresh and energetic voice for the Democratic Party’s future.
Jon Ossoff
Jon Ossoff photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Joe Raedle/Getty Images
Bio: Jon Ossoff, a U.S. senator from Georgia, gained national attention with his and Raphael Warnock's historic Senate victories in 2021, flipping Georgia blue for the first time in decades. A filmmaker and investigative journalist by trade, Ossoff has brought a data-driven approach to policy and governance.
Why a Top Contender: Ossoff’s success in a state that had been Republican for years demonstrates his ability to mobilize young and diverse voters. His media savvy, coupled with his focus on infrastructure, healthcare, and voting rights, positions him as a rising leader with nationwide appeal.
Mark Cuban
Mark Cuban photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Brian Fluharty/Getty Images
Bio:Mark Cuban, a billionaire entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks, is a household name known for his sharp business acumen and philanthropy. As a media personality and investor, Cuban has focused on innovation and economic opportunity, something that has resonated with Americans. His roots are in the blue-collar districts of southwestern Pennsylvania that the Democratic party needs to reclaim.
Why a Top Contender: Cuban’s outsider status and successful track record in business could appeal to moderates and independents. His ability to self-fund a campaign and communicate effectively make him a wild card candidate with the potential to shake up the Democratic primary field.
Gavin Newsom
Gavin Newsom photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Sheila Fitzgerald/shutterstock
Bio:Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, is a prominent Democratic leader known for his progressive policies on climate change, health care, and economic equality. A former mayor of San Francisco, Newsom has consistently positioned himself as a forward-thinking leader.
Why a Top Contender: Newsom’s executive experience governing the nation’s largest state and his bold policy initiatives make him a strong contender. His national profile and ability to energize the Democratic base could be pivotal in securing the 2028 nomination.
Andy Beshear
Andy Beshear photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Michael Swensen/Getty Images
Bio:Andy Beshear, the governor of Kentucky, has earned a reputation as a pragmatic, compassionate leader. Despite governing a deeply red state, Beshear has focused on expanding health care, improving infrastructure, and uniting communities.
Why a Top Contender: Beshear’s ability to win in a Republican stronghold highlights his bipartisan appeal. His focus on empathy-driven leadership and tangible results could make him a unifying candidate capable of bridging the urban-rural divide in 2028.
J.B. Pritzker
JB Pritzker photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028
Peter Serocki/shutterstock
Bio:J.B. Pritzker, the governor of Illinois, is a billionaire businessman and philanthropist who has championed progressive policies during his tenure. Under his leadership, Illinois has made strides in infrastructure, education, and health care reforms.
Why a Top Contender: Pritzker’s combination of wealth, executive experience, and progressive credentials make him a formidable candidate. His ability to fundraise and mobilize the Democratic base positions him well for a competitive run in 2028.
These 12 Democrats are the early top contenders for the party’s presidential nomination in 2028
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