Fresno Fire Investigators Arrest Suspected Arsonist

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By Kathy Paez - email

Nicholas Benitez

FRESNO, Calif. (KMPH) -

Fresno Fire investigators have arrested a suspected arsonist.

22-year-old Nicholas Benitez is believed to be responsible for a string of fires that were set early Thursday morning.

Just before 12:30 a.m., firefighters responded to eight separate fires on Shields Avenue, between Cedar and Highway 41.

Witness identified Benitez who was near Manchester Mall as the person who set them.

He was held by mall security until police arrived.

Benitez claims he was "celebrating his birthday" after walking home from a local nightclub.

He faces eight counts of arson charges.

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Fresno Fire Investigators Arrest Suspected Arsonist - KMPH FOX 26 | Central San Joaquin Valley News Source

Fresno Fire Investigators Arrest Suspected Arsonist

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