Crime
Suspect Arrested for Alleged Arson Amid Deadly California Wildfires
A man was arrested by California authorities after residents reportedly detained him for allegedly setting fires in an area already grappling with devastating wildfires.
The suspect, described as shirtless when apprehended, was taken into custody by police as residents battle the ongoing destruction caused by the blazes.
The wildfires ravaging Los Angeles and surrounding areas have led to significant destruction, with officials confirming at least 11 deaths.
However, authorities caution that the true death toll remains uncertain as investigators are unable to safely access areas with active flames, downed power lines, and gas leaks.
More than 100,000 residents remain under evacuation orders as firefighters work tirelessly to contain multiple fires across the region:
- Palisades Fire: Currently 11% contained, the fire continues to move inland, threatening communities including Encino, West Los Angeles, and Brentwood, as well as landmarks like the Getty Center and UCLA.
- Eaton Fire: Burning in the Altadena area, this fire is 15% contained as firefighters report favorable overnight conditions aiding containment efforts.
Among the confirmed fatalities is Victor Shaw, a 66-year-old resident of the Altadena area, identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
Shaw’s death was attributed to smoke inhalation and thermal injuries caused by the Eaton Fire.
As the fires continue to wreak havoc, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reports receiving over 16,000 applications for individual assistance from affected residents, according to FEMA Regional Administrator Bob Fenton.
Firefighters are racing against time to contain the wildfires before worsening weather conditions, including strong winds and low humidity, create additional challenges.
Officials stress the importance of continued vigilance and adherence to evacuation orders for the safety of residents and emergency responders alike.
Authorities are urging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activities that could contribute to the fire’s spread. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Crime
One Dead, One Injured in Apparent Self-Defense Shooting Outside Cali Rose 15 Kitchen in Lakeland
On Thursday, April 24, 2025, at approximately 9:31 p.m., officers with the Lakeland Police Department responded to reports of a shooting at Cali Rose 15 Kitchen, formerly known as Rush Hour Bar & Grill, located at 1323 Ariana Street in Lakeland.
Upon arrival, officers discovered that two individuals—identified as Jesse Banks, 28, of Lakeland, and Nicholas Lue, 26, of West Palm Beach—had sustained gunshot wounds.
Both men were transported to Lakeland Regional Health for emergency treatment.
Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Banks was pronounced deceased.
Lue was stabilized and remains hospitalized in recovery.
Preliminary findings from witness interviews and physical evidence at the scene indicate that the incident began as a verbal altercation between Banks, Lue, and another individual, identified as Tre D’Shon Huntly, 24, of Lakeland.
The confrontation occurred just outside the restaurant’s front entrance.
According to investigators, the dispute escalated when Banks physically struck Huntly in the head.
At that moment, a male standing just inside the business opened the front door in defense of Huntly.
Banks and Lue then allegedly turned their aggression toward this second individual, producing a firearm and pointing it at him.
In response, Huntly drew a handgun and discharged several rounds, striking both Banks and Lue.
A handgun was later recovered from Banks at the scene.
Huntly remained at the location and fully cooperated with detectives during the investigation.
Based on the information available, it appears Huntly acted in self-defense.
No criminal charges have been filed at this time.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Anyone with additional information regarding the incident is urged to contact Detective Neal Robertson at 863-834-6971 or via email at neal.robertson@lakelandgov.net.