Arson Task Force identifies juvenile suspect thought to have started the Cocos Fire

SAN DIEGO - The Sheriff's Bomb/Arson Unit with the help of Cal Fire, San Marcos Fire Department and ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) arson investigators, conducted a complete investigation into the origin and cause of the Washingtonia/Cocos Fire in San Marcos which occurred on May 14.

Investigators determined the initial fire was intentionally set. The fire quickly spread due to the severe weather conditions. Investigators sifted through the many tips and photos provided by the public. A juvenile suspect believed to be the person responsible for starting the fire has been identified. It is the policy of the San Diego County Sheriff's Department not to release information about juvenile suspects.

At this time, investigators don’t have any information linking the suspect to any other fires.

The Sheriff's Department participated with the Joint Arson Task Force Information Exchange during the May fires. At this time, it does not appear that there is any connection linking any of the fires.

No other information will be released at this time as the case has been submitted to the District Attorney's Office for review.