Crime
Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva arrested in connection with Kenneth Fire in Los Angeles
A homeless man accused of attempting to ignite fires near a Los Angeles wildfire has been identified as 36-year-old Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva, a Mexican national in the U.S. illegally.
The incident unfolded near the Kenneth Fire, which burned over 1,050 acres across Los Angeles and Ventura counties before being fully contained on Sunday.
Sierra-Leyva was tackled and restrained by residents of Woodland Hills after he was allegedly seen using what appeared to be a makeshift flamethrower to set old Christmas trees and debris on fire.
Witnesses detained him with zip ties and rope until the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) arrived. Video footage of the confrontation shows residents surrounding the suspect, with one shouting, “Put it down!”
According to LAPD Assistant Chief Dominic Choi, while detectives are investigating the case as a possible arson, there was insufficient evidence at the time of arrest to charge Sierra-Leyva with arson.
Instead, he was booked for a felony probation violation, though authorities have not disclosed details of his prior conviction.
Sierra-Leyva’s immigration status has raised concerns among law enforcement officials. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed he is in the country illegally and plans to issue a detainer request.
However, due to California’s sanctuary state laws, local authorities are unlikely to honor the request.
California’s sanctuary policies, enacted in 2017, limit local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
These policies were further reinforced by a Los Angeles City Council ordinance passed in November, prohibiting the use of city resources for federal immigration enforcement efforts.
Law enforcement sources expressed frustration, stating that the lack of collaboration between local and federal agencies has allowed individuals with extensive criminal histories to remain in the U.S.
Court records reveal Sierra-Leyva has a lengthy criminal history in Los Angeles County, including a 2023 conviction for assault with a deadly weapon. Over the years, he has spent more than two years in jail for various offenses. It remains unclear where and when he entered the United States.
The Kenneth Fire, which erupted last Thursday, consumed over 1,050 acres across two counties before being fully contained.
The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation, and it is not yet confirmed whether Sierra-Leyva’s actions contributed to its spread.
Residents who apprehended Sierra-Leyva expressed their alarm at the situation. “A few gentlemen surrounded him and got him on his knees. They got some zip ties and rope, and we were able to perform a citizen’s arrest,” said a witness identified as Grinshpun.
Local authorities, including the LAPD’s Major Crimes Squad, are continuing their investigation into the incident.
Anyone with additional information about the Kenneth Fire or the suspect’s activities is urged to contact the LAPD or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Crime
Wyoming Tragedy: 3 children killed, 1 fighting for life after Byron shooting
Sources confirmed woman shot and killed her children – All under age of 10
Byron, WY – Authorities are investigating a devastating shooting incident that occurred Monday afternoon in the small town of Byron, Wyoming, leaving multiple victims, both deceased and injured.
According to Big Horn County Sheriff Ken Blackburn, law enforcement responded to a 911 call at approximately 1:30 p.m. reporting gunfire at a residence on the south side of Byron.
Upon arrival, officers from the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office, Wyoming Highway Patrol, and Lovell Police Department discovered multiple gunshot victims inside the home.
Some were found alive and in need of medical attention, while others were deceased.
Among those affected was Cliff Harshman, a devoted father and husband, who suffered the unimaginable loss of his three daughters, one still fighting for life.
Sources have confirmed that the suspect, Tranyelle Harshman, is believed to have fatally shot her children, all of whom were under the age of 10.
The sheriff’s office has not yet specified how many individuals perished or survived the attack.
Several victims were transported by ambulance to North Big Horn Hospital in Lovell for emergency treatment.
Their conditions remain unknown.
To assist with the investigation, Sheriff Blackburn has requested support from the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) to process the scene.
Authorities have reassured the public that there is no active threat to the community at this time.
Sheriff Blackburn expressed gratitude to the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Lovell Police Department, local hospitals, and emergency responders for their swift response to the tragedy.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to all those affected by this devastating incident,” Sheriff Blackburn stated.
Byron is a small farming community located approximately 12 miles southwest of Lovell, Wyoming. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected to be released as authorities continue their work.