Prosecutors have declined to file charges against four people arrested over the August 24 fire that devastated Santa Clarita’s Old Town Newhall, but the case has been returned to law enforcement for further investigation.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the decision on Monday, November 2. It did not say when investigators might resubmit the case or whether charges could be brought at a later stage.
The blaze broke out shortly after 3am in the 24000 block of North Main Street and spread through at least seven structures, destroying several businesses and causing an estimated $13 million (£9.9 million) in damage.
Those arrested last week were John Wright, 47, and Jesus Figueroa, 54, both from Canyon Country, along with Cristian Leija, 43, and Antoinette Ruiz, 35, from El Monte. They had been arrested on suspicion of arson and conspiracy.
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department detectives served search warrants at four locations across the county during the investigation. Wright was identified as the owner of Gary’s Auto Collision Center, where investigators said the fire began.
The flames also destroyed or severely damaged businesses including the Newhall Refinery restaurant, the MAIN theatre and Care Tucker Style House in the historic district.
A spokeswoman for the District Attorney’s Office said the potential case had been sent back for “further investigation”. The sheriff’s department has indicated that its inquiry remains active.
No injuries were reported in the fire, which caused widespread disruption in Old Town Newhall and prompted efforts to clear debris and begin restoring the damaged area.
