De Luz Brush Fire: Molotov Cocktails Found In Arson Suspect's Vehicle

DE LUZ, CA — A man suspected of setting a brush fire in De Luz last week and who, at the time of his arrest, was found with explosives, has been linked to other blazes in the area, authorities announced.

Neema Ahmadpour, 20, was taken into custody by San Diego County sheriff's deputies following the 1-acre blaze that broke out around 11:30 a.m. Friday in De Luz's Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve.

According to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, deputies were called to the scene, and a park ranger pointed out a man, later identified as Ahmadpour, who reportedly started the fire. The suspect also allegedly threatened the ranger with a knife.

Ahmadpour was uncooperative and became combative with deputies, so force was used to take him into custody, according to the sheriff's department.

During a search of Ahmadpour's vehicle, deputies found "several Molotov cocktails ready for use," according to the law enforcement agency.

Cal Fire/San Diego County Fire arson investigators also responded to the scene. During their investigation, they determined Ahmadpour started at least two previous brush fires in San Diego County, according to the sheriff's department.

Ahmadpour was booked into county jail on suspicion of multiple counts of arson, possessing explosive devices, and violently resisting arrest.

The De Luz fire was quickly contained, and no homes were threatened.