Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies arrested 26-year-old Joseph Cardenas on suspicion of attempted murder and arson. Bail has been set at $1 million. (File Photo)
By G. T. Houts
Lake Arrowhead, CA – A 26-year-old man identified as Joseph Cardenas is facing attempted murder and arson charges following an incident in Lake Arrowhead early Friday morning, according to a media advisory issued by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station.
THE INCIDENT
Deputies from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station were dispatched to the 400 block of Merrimack Drive in Lake Arrowhead at about 3:12 a.m. on December 16, regarding an arson investigation.
The unidentified victim called 9-1-1 to report a fire at his residence. The fire was extinguished by the victim when he used a garden hose located at the Lake Arrowhead address.
The suspect, later identified as Cardenas fled the scene when he learned deputies were responding.
THE INVESTIGATION
Deputy Bullag arrived on scene and began an investigation discovering the residence was deliberately set on fire by Cardenas in multiple locations, according to the press release.
Two victims were in the residence and awake when the fires were started. They were able to extinguish the flames before they spread.
ADDITIONAL INCIDENT
While Deputy Bullag was inside a bedroom speaking to a victim, Cardenas allegedly ignited another fire inside residence using a propane tank and some paper.
The deputy noticed the smoke and reportedly saw Cardenas running away from the Merrimack Drive home. Cardenas was quickly detained by Deputy Bullag and the fire was put out by a garden hose.
San Bernardino County Fire units responded twice to the address at 3:15 a.m. and again at 5:14 a.m.
THE ARREST
Cardenas was arrested for Attempted Murder and Arson, and transported to the West Valley Detention Center for booking.
Cardenas was also booked for Attempted Murder of a Peace Officer due to Deputy Bullag being inside the residence when the fire was started.
He is being held on $1 million bail and is scheduled for a video arraignment at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 20.
Cardenas also has a $100,000 hold from Los Angeles County for a vehicle code violation.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Anyone with additional information about the case should contact the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station at (909) 336-0600.
Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information online at WE-TIP.
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