Chaos erupted in Spring Valley yesterday evening when a residence in the 900 block of Sacramento Avenue caught fire under suspicious circumstances. The San Diego Sheriff’s Department and San Miguel Fire Department responded urgently to the emergency call placed at 7:35 p.m., as confirmed by the Sheriff’s Department. They arrived to find the home ablaze, with multiple small fires distributed throughout several rooms.
The occupants of the troubled dwelling were safely evacuated, though one individual required medical attention for minor injuries, including burns and smoke inhalation. The Sheriff's Bomb/Arson Unit, a specialized team that steps in when a fire whispers of dark intent, was quick to take charge of the investigation. They pinpointed the bedroom as the fire’s point of origin, and the sinister handprint of arson lay bare upon the scene.
Detectives have named Sean Arkward, a 6'03", 220-pound black male born on July 27, 1969, as the suspect responsible for kindling this deliberate act of destruction. Despite fervent efforts, Sheriff's deputies have not located the man. Arkward is now wanted for arrest for California Penal Code 451(b) – a charge that speaks to the crime of recklessly causing fire to an inhabited structure.
Authorities are asking the public to be vigilant and report any sightings or information related to Arkward's whereabouts. For those whose tips lead to his capture, a reward of up to $1,000 is offered. The anonymity of heroes is preserved through the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477, and leads can also be submitted through their website at www.sdcrimestoppers.org.
