Tables turned on Los Angeles arson suspect in caught-on-cam takedown: 'Wrong neighborhood, buddy'
Share and Follow

A group of residents stepped in and conducted a citizen’s arrest after spotting a man allegedly sparking a fire in the brush of their neighborhood in Los Angeles, as the region deals with the aftermath of wildfires.

Alejandro Martinez, 41, faces a charge of arson, according to the LA County Sheriff’s Department.

Video posted by journalist Gabe Cortez on Instagram, and obtained by Fox News Digital, showed a man running down a road being chased by people in cars in a neighborhood in Chatsworth, a neighborhood in LA.

The video captured concerned residents taking matters into their own hands and tackling Martinez. 

Wrong neighborhood, buddy! Wrong neighborhood!

— Neighborhood resident

Brandon Taylor, a photographer with Traffic News LA, said that he was capturing photos in the area after he was alerted to a brush fire in the area.

“It just seemed a little strange that there was a guy there after a brush fire was reported just a quarter-mile up the road,” Taylor explained to FOX 11 Los Angeles. “And he’s in the bush doing something.”

After spotting Martinez in the bush, citizens went after him, leading to a swift apprehension.

Wildfires in Los Angeles

A firefighter responds as a wildfire breaks out near the Pacific Palisades on the west side of Los Angeles during a weather-driven windstorm in Southern California on Jan. 7, 2025. (REUTERS/Mike Blake)

For the neighbors, the suspected arson hits home as many Los Angeles residents continue to pick up the pieces after their homes were destroyed by devastating wildfires.

“The residents were furious,” Taylor said. “They’ve gone through the Woolsey Fire, which started just a mile from there. With all the dry vegetation, they were really concerned about him starting another fire and losing their homes.”

Authorities urge anyone with information about this case to contact the LA County Sheriff’s Department. Chatsworth is about a 30-mile drive northwest from downtown Los Angeles.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the LA County Sheriff’s Department for comment.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Russia, Ukraine to discuss territory as Trump says both sides 'want to make a deal'

Russia and Ukraine to Engage in Territorial Discussions Amid Trump’s Claim of Mutual Desire for Resolution

The United States, Russia, and Ukraine have converged in Abu Dhabi, United…
Denmark's prime minister insists sovereignty is non-negotiable as Trump announces Greenland deal 'framework'

Danish PM Firmly Declares Sovereignty as Trump Proposes Greenland Deal Framework

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has firmly stated that Denmark will not…
Idaho murders photos put police on damage control as families fume over accidental release

Idaho Murders: Police Scramble for Damage Control After Accidental Photo Leak Sparks Family Outrage

WARNING: Graphic Content Local officials have raised concerns after graphic crime scene…
DCPS to install walk-through weapon detection system at all middle schools

DCPS Implements Advanced Walk-Through Weapon Detection Systems in Middle Schools

Duval County Public Schools is set to introduce the CEIA OPENGATE weapon…
Trump posts 'loaded gun' image after federal agent kills man, 37

Trump Shares Provocative Image Following Fatal Shooting by Federal Agent

On Saturday, Donald Trump posted an image of what he claimed to…
King Charles concerns 'prompted Trump to backtrack on UK troops jibe'

King Charles’ Concerns Lead to Trump Reconsidering Comments on UK Troops

Donald Trump has reportedly retracted his statement suggesting that British troops avoided…
The stereotypes Dubai expats find so offensive - but they're all true

Debunking Dubai: The Surprising Truth Behind Stereotypes That Expats Find Offensive

For many travelers today, Dubai stands out as a top-tier destination when…
Family of slain anti-ICE protester rings out

Family of Deceased Anti-ICE Activist Speaks Out

The family of a Minnesota protester who was fatally shot by border…