Santa Monica Police Arrest Suspect in Citywide Arson Spree

Santa Monica Police Arrest Suspect in Citywide Arson Spree

Santa Monica, CA – A 36-year-old man was arrested Saturday in connection with a series of arson fires set across Santa Monica, authorities announced.

Between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM on February 8, Santa Monica police and fire personnel responded to four separate fires at multiple locations, where discarded items, a parked vehicle, and public property were intentionally set ablaze.

The suspect, identified as Marco Antonio Rubio, was apprehended following a coordinated response by law enforcement, which included the use of aerial drone technology. At the time of his arrest, Rubio was found in possession of a lighter and an aerosol can.

The fires occurred at:

• 1000 block of Colorado Avenue – A discarded pillow and cardboard were set on fire.
• 16th Street & Michigan Avenue – A discarded mattress was set on fire.
• Memorial Park – Netting on a Little League batting cage was set on fire.
• 1500 block of 18th Street – A parked vehicle was set on fire.

According to police, Rubio has a history of arrests in both California and Texas, including charges for resisting arrest, domestic violence, and assault-related offenses, though no prior arson-related charges are on record.

“This swift and coordinated response underscores our commitment to public safety,” said Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista. “Through teamwork and advanced technology, we were able to quickly identify and apprehend the suspect before more harm was done.”

Authorities urge residents to report suspicious activity immediately. Anyone with information about these incidents is encouraged to contact Detective McCoy at james.mccoy@santamonica.gov, Sergeant Cooney at shaun.cooney@santamonica.gov, or the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.

National Guard Departs Pacific Palisades After Month-Long Fire Recovery Effort

On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the National Guard concluded its month-long deployment in Pacific Palisades, packing up its base at Will Rogers State Beach Parking Lot. After weeks of securing the fire-stricken region, military personnel are now transitioning to Malibu to assist in the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Palisades Fire. Since their arrival, National Guard Military Police played a critical role in maintaining order and reinforcing local law enforcement efforts. Stationed at key entry points between Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades, they monitored evacuation zones, enforced security perimeters, and worked alongside mutual aid teams to ensure the safety of residents and first responders. Their presence helped deter trespassers, looters, and unauthorized access to fire-damaged neighborhoods, allowing recovery operations to proceed without disruption. The Palisades Fire ignited on January 7, 2025, and quickly escalated due to powerful Santa Ana winds and prolonged drought conditions. The wildfire consumed more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents from Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and parts of the San Fernando Valley. At least five lives were lost, and many others were injured. In the aftermath, the National Guard provided essential support to local agencies by securing roadblocks, assisting with logistics, and coordinating emergency response efforts. Their departure marks a significant transition in the recovery phase as authorities shift their focus to rebuilding infrastructure, clearing hazardous debris, and restoring essential services. As operations continue in Malibu, local, state, and federal agencies remain committed to ensuring the affected communities receive the necessary resources to recover and rebuild.

U.S. Army Corps Breaks Ground in Palisades: Fastest Wildfire Cleanup in State History Begins

Pacific Palisades, CA – February 11, 2025 – Federal, state, and local officials gathered in Pacific Palisades on Tuesday to mark the launch of the fastest large-scale wildfire debris removal effort in California history. Led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in coordination with FEMA, Cal OES, and local agencies, the initiative is expediting cleanup efforts following the Eaton and Palisades fires. Speaking at the press conference, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, Cal OES Director Nancy Ward, FEMA Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton, Major General Jason Kelly of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and Colonel Eric Swenson of the Army Corps’ recovery field office emphasized the urgency and scale of the operation. Officials highlighted that private property debris removal is beginning just 35 days after the fires ignited, making this the fastest wildfire cleanup effort in the state’s history—nearly twice as fast as previous recovery operations. Colonel Swenson detailed the removal process, explaining that teams will clear fire ash, debris, foundations, and hazardous trees from affected properties while ensuring safe transport to permitted disposal sites. He stressed that this operation moves the community from an uncontrolled environment to a controlled one, reducing fire hazards and improving public safety. Mayor Bass praised the coordinated response, noting that all levels of government had mobilized rapidly to help residents return home as quickly as possible. “We stand with the people of Pacific Palisades, and we will be here until every resident can return home,” Bass said. “This is government working at its best—federal, state, and local agencies moving at lightning speed to restore this community.” Supervisor Horvath reported significant progress in collecting Right-of-Entry (ROE) forms, which allow crews to access properties for debris removal. Over 8,000 forms have been submitted, with 99% of residents opting into the public cleanup process. She noted that widespread participation ensures an efficient, coordinated recovery. Meanwhile, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has completed hazardous waste removal, clearing the way for this next phase. Officials also assured residents that erosion control measures and stormwater protections are in place to prevent environmental contamination. To manage logistics, authorities are finalizing a traffic management plan in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol, LAPD, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and other agencies. The plan aims to minimize disruptions as trucks transport debris from the affected areas. As cleanup efforts continue, residents can expect an increased presence of debris removal crews in the coming weeks. Officials urged those who have not yet submitted their ROE forms to do so by March 31 at recovery.lacounty.gov. A One-Stop Center will open this week to assist residents in navigating the rebuilding process, including permit applications for new construction. Major General Jason Kelly of the Army Corps of Engineers reaffirmed the commitment to swift action, stating, “This is about restoring communities, rebuilding lives, and ensuring safety. We are sparing no effort to get this done as fast as possible.” Residents seeking federal debris removal assistance can visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) or sign up online at ca.gov/LAFires.

𝗦𝗔𝗖𝗥𝗜𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗘𝗗 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗣𝗢𝗪𝗘𝗥: Palm Trees Cut Down for New Power Lines After Devastating Wildfire

On Monday, February 10, 2025, crews from Tree Service Kings, Inc. were hard at work along Swarthmore Avenue in Pacific Palisades, removing palm trees that posed a risk to newly installed power lines. As part of ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Palisades Fire, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) has been replacing damaged power poles. To ensure public safety and prevent future outages, palm trees interfering with utility lines had to be removed as part of a utility line clearance operation.

The Palisades Fire, which erupted on January 7, 2025, spread rapidly due to powerful Santa Ana winds and extended drought conditions. The wildfire consumed more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley. The fire tragically claimed at least five lives and left many others injured. In the aftermath, utility restoration and fire mitigation efforts remain a top priority for the community’s rebuilding process.

Tree Service Kings, Inc., a Canoga Park-based company specializing in tree maintenance, has been at the forefront of these efforts. Established in 2007, the company provides utility line clearance, as well as residential, commercial, and municipal tree services across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Their expertise includes tree pruning, removal, stump grinding, and brush clearing to comply with fire safety regulations. Fully licensed, insured, and bonded, the company operates under strict safety protocols and professional standards.

Committed to workforce development, Tree Service Kings, Inc. follows the SEED program—Safety, Education, and Employee Development—to ensure their team is well-trained and equipped for hazardous tasks. The company maintains an active USDOT number (2720563) and operates 16 power units with 20 drivers, engaging in interstate commerce.

As Pacific Palisades continues to recover from the fire, operations like these play a crucial role in restoring essential services and maintaining public safety. Residents and businesses seeking tree care services can contact Tree Service Kings, Inc. at (818) 772-4850 for more information.

Demolition Begins on First Homes in Pacific Palisades Following Devastating Fire

On Monday, February 10, 2025, JG Demolition & Construction Cleanup Inc. began demolition on one of the first homes in Pacific Palisades following the catastrophic Palisades Fire. The crew, led by CEO Jorge Gurrola, was on-site on Embury Street, where they carefully carried out the next phase of recovery after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed hazardous material removal. Gurrola explained that before demolition could begin, the EPA had to clear the site of hazardous materials such as aerosol cans, batteries, and propane tanks. Once the EPA issued a completion notice, a Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC) was brought in to conduct necessary testing. If tests return negative for asbestos and other contaminants, homeowners can proceed with applying for a demolition permit. "We are one of the first companies out here in the Palisades breaking ground," said Gurrola. "Our team is following strict protocols, ensuring each step is completed properly, from hazardous material clearance to final debris disposal at certified facilities. We are committed to helping homeowners through this process one house at a time, doing it the right way." JG Demolition is a full-service demolition, excavation, and clearing company specializing in safe and efficient debris removal. The company is a Los Angeles-certified waste hauler, fully EPA Lead-Certified, OSHA Certified, and recycling compliant, ensuring all materials are handled according to the highest environmental and safety standards. As a certified Los Angeles City sub-hauler, JG Demolition is authorized to transport debris to proper disposal facilities while maintaining compliance with local and federal regulations. Gurrola encouraged impacted residents to reach out for estimates and consultations as the cleanup and rebuilding process continues. The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, consumed more than 23,000 acres and destroyed over 12,000 structures, displacing approximately 150,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley. Strong Santa Ana winds fueled the fire, making containment efforts difficult, while aerial firefighting support was limited due to extreme conditions. Though significant rainfall helped extinguish the blaze, it also introduced new risks, including mudslides and debris flow. As recovery efforts progress, demolition and debris removal mark a crucial step toward rebuilding. Local contractors, environmental agencies, and utility crews continue working to restore services and prepare affected areas for reconstruction.

Demolition Begins on First Homes in Pacific Palisades Following Devastating Fire

On Monday, February 10, 2025, JG Demolition & Construction Cleanup Inc. began demolition on one of the first homes in Pacific Palisades following the catastrophic Palisades Fire. The crew, led by CEO Jorge Gurrola, was on-site on Embury Street, where they carefully carried out the next phase of recovery after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed hazardous material removal.

Gurrola explained that before demolition could begin, the EPA had to clear the site of hazardous materials such as aerosol cans, batteries, and propane tanks. Once the EPA issued a completion notice, a Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC) was brought in to conduct necessary testing. If tests return negative for asbestos and other contaminants, homeowners can proceed with applying for a demolition permit.

"We are one of the first companies out here in the Palisades breaking ground," said Gurrola. "Our team is following strict protocols, ensuring each step is completed properly, from hazardous material clearance to final debris disposal at certified facilities. We are committed to helping homeowners through this process one house at a time, doing it the right way."

JG Demolition is a full-service demolition, excavation, and clearing company specializing in safe and efficient debris removal. The company is a Los Angeles-certified waste hauler, fully EPA Lead-Certified, OSHA Certified, and recycling compliant, ensuring all materials are handled according to the highest environmental and safety standards. As a certified Los Angeles City sub-hauler, JG Demolition is authorized to transport debris to proper disposal facilities while maintaining compliance with local and federal regulations.

Gurrola encouraged impacted residents to reach out for estimates and consultations as the cleanup and rebuilding process continues.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, consumed more than 23,000 acres and destroyed over 12,000 structures, displacing approximately 150,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley. Strong Santa Ana winds fueled the fire, making containment efforts difficult, while aerial firefighting support was limited due to extreme conditions. Though significant rainfall helped extinguish the blaze, it also introduced new risks, including mudslides and debris flow.

As recovery efforts progress, demolition and debris removal mark a crucial step toward rebuilding. Local contractors, environmental agencies, and utility crews continue working to restore services and prepare affected areas for reconstruction.

CONTACT: JG DEMOLITION 818-402-6566

Woman Found Dead on Santa Monica Beach: Homicide Investigation Underway

Santa Monica, CA – A homicide investigation is underway after Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) officers responded to the discovery of a deceased woman along the shoreline early Monday morning. At approximately 7:05 a.m. on February 10, City Beach Maintenance personnel found an unresponsive individual near Lifeguard Tower 1550, in the 1500 block of the beach. Officers arrived to find a female victim, believed to be unhoused, and approximately 30 years old, inside a sleeping bag with visible trauma to her face. Santa Monica Fire Department paramedics pronounced her deceased at the scene. The victim’s identity remains unknown, and detectives are working to determine the circumstances surrounding her death. SMPD forensic specialists were seen processing the scene throughout the morning. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Detective Peter Zamfirov at Peter.Zamfirov@santamonica.gov, Sergeant Alfonso Lozano at Alfonso.Lozano@santamonica.gov, or the department’s Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427. This is a developing story.