Yesterday, the Santa Rosa Police Department Property Crimes Investigations Team (SRPD PCI) brought an abrupt end to an alarming string of arson attacks. They arrested 29-year-old Heriberto Soliz-Olivarez, a transient with known ties to the area, linking him to five separate incidents of intentional fires set between March and May of this year. According to a social media post by Santa Rosa Police, Soliz-Olivarez was apprehended at Finley Park carrying the distinctive backpack seen in security footage from a recent arson, donning the same clothes, setting the stage for what many hope will be the end of this fearful chapter.
The investigation began after a fire was reported on Exeter Drive on March 24, where detectives found a burned fence next to a home. A second fire at the same location occurred on April 30, this time set using lighter fluid.
Police later discovered more arson incidents on Warren Lane, all targeting one resident’s property. A fence and garage door were set on fire in two separate attacks just days apart. Security footage from the second incident helped police identify the suspect, Soliz-Olivarez.
These fires were serious, with each one posing a real threat, especially since the targeted home belonged to an 86-year-old woman who was affected three times. Thanks to quick action from neighbors and emergency crews, no one was hurt. The fast response to the first fire shows how strong and alert the community is in the face of danger. Santa Rosa Police say they are "committed to swift and thorough investigations to prevent further harm," a message that reflects the concern felt by residents.
Although the motive remains unclear, authorities say Soliz-Olivarez does not appear to have any connection to the victims. He is now facing five felony counts of arson and is being held in the Sonoma County Jail on $575,000 bail. Police continue to urge residents to stay alert and report anything suspicious as the city remains cautious in the wake of these incidents.
