MARTINEZ — A 41-year-old Martinez woman was in county jail Tuesday after her arrest on suspicion of charges in connection with a grass fire, authorities said.
Just after 2:30 p.m., Contra Costa County Fire Protection District firefighters responded to reports of a grass fire in the 3500 block of Pacheco Boulevard, and arrived to find flames burning about a half-acre of land close to buildings and petroleum tanks along the town’s light-industrial business corridor.
With help from Martinez police, ConFire investigators found and took the woman into custody, and arrested her on suspicion of arson to vegetation. The fire was contained within about half an hour, with firefighters remaining on scene to mop up and assess the area.
She was booked into Martinez county jail and held on $75,000 bail, according to a county records check Tuesday night.
According to a fire-district social-media post, the district’s firefighters saw their year’s busiest night Monday, responding to more than 50 fires, several of which were proven or suspected to be caused by illegal fireworks use.
While U Were 😴 — It was the busiest night of the year for Con Fire, as crews responded to 55 fires; five accidents, with one requiring rescue; and 140 EMS calls. Many of the fires last night are known to have been caused by fireworks, while many others are suspected. pic.twitter.com/zjyObOzOtz
— Con Fire PIO (@ContraCostaFire) July 5, 2022
Con Fire is currently at a First Alarm Vegetation Fire on Pacheco in Martinez. The fire is currently contained, mop up will continue for another hour. pic.twitter.com/4WxKjtFlrH
— Con Fire PIO (@ContraCostaFire) July 5, 2022
Pacheco Fire Update, Con Fire Investigators and Martinez PD have identified the person responsible for setting this fire. Laura Lee Royer, 41, of Martinez was taken into custody and charged with Penal Code 451(c) Arson to Vegetation. pic.twitter.com/RMaKii8lt5
— Con Fire PIO (@ContraCostaFire) July 5, 2022
Contact George Kelly at 408-859-5180.
Source: www.mercurynews.com