California Woman Arrested for Arson Near Park

California authorities have arrested Gloria Lynn Mandich, 60, on felony arson charges related to a brush fire near Leo Carrillo State Park that occurred on January 8 during severe Santa Ana winds. The fire was quickly extinguished, but the incident is part of a larger wildfire crisis in Southern California, which has seen multiple blazes, including the Kenneth Fire, that have burned thousands of acres and resulted in at least 10 fatalities. While Mandich's connection to the fire has been confirmed, another suspect detained near the Kenneth Fire was released due to insufficient evidence for arson charges. The ongoing wildfire situation has led to widespread evacuations and the closure of several state parks. California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency, with President Biden approving a major disaster declaration. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of these fires, urging vigilance during red flag warnings and reporting of suspicious activities.