By Trend News Line 2024-05-24 02:12:00.
Man Charged with Attempting to Burn Down California Preschool
A terrifying incident unfolded in Yucaipa, California, as a New Mexico man, Jonathan A. Barajas Nava, 38, has been charged with two counts of attempted destruction of property by means of fire. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Central District of California revealed that Nava allegedly tried to burn down a California preschool while children and staff were inside.
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Preschool and Strip Mall Targeted
The shocking incident took place on April 24, where Nava is accused of pouring an “ignitable liquid” at the entrance of Retreat Church and Yucaipa Christian Preschool in Yucaipa, California. Thankfully, although 48 preschool students and 14 staff members were present at the time, no injuries were reported. Following this, Nava is said to have moved on to a nearby strip mall, where he allegedly attempted to set fire to the building’s gas meters.
Quick Response Prevents Disaster
Authorities were alerted around 1 p.m. local time when witnesses saw Nava carrying a gas can towards the school entrance. Quick-thinking neighbors intervened and managed to extinguish the fire before any significant damage was done. The vigilant actions of these individuals helped prevent a potential tragedy at the preschool.
Second Fire at Strip Mall
Just hours later, authorities received reports of another fire at a strip mall located a mile away from the preschool. The fire, which targeted an optometry center’s wall near gas meters, displayed similar characteristics to the previous incident. Responding officers discovered a black gas can near the scene, indicating a deliberate attempt to cause harm.
Arrest and Previous Offenses
The series of events culminated in Nava being apprehended by law enforcement after a dramatic confrontation. Despite initial attempts to escape, Nava found himself trapped on a chain-linked fence before his vehicle caught fire. He sustained injuries during the ordeal and was identified as the suspect behind the arson attempts. Shockingly, authorities later uncovered that Nava was on probation for setting a church ablaze in Albuquerque in 2022.
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Potential Legal Ramifications
As the investigation continues, Nava faces serious consequences for his actions. If convicted for the California fires, he could receive a sentence ranging from five to 40 years in federal prison. His arraignment is scheduled for May 28, where the full extent of the charges against him will be revealed. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department are actively involved in the case to ensure justice is served.
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– man allegedly tried burn down preschool children staff inside
– man attempted set fire preschool children staff inside.
