Claim of Arson Proved False by Evidence

Whittier, CA. (11/01/06) – An elaborate story of arson appears to have been proven false by burn patterns and evidence located inside a scorched apartment.

At 9:30 PM, the Whittier Police Department received a 911 call from a subject inside apartment #7, at 7316 Milton Avenue, claiming that people were outside his apartment trying to set it on fire. As Whittier dispatchers were talking to the man inside the apartment, who was identified as George Hernandez (35yrs), he claimed “gang members” were trying to kick in the front door to carry out their mission. Hernandez would also tell Whittier dispatchers he heard “glass shatter” and that moments later the apartment was ablaze.

Arriving on scene, multiple officers began trying to locate Hernandez amidst the smoke and flames. Seconds later, Hernandez emerged from a second story window and jumped to the balcony below. Hernandez would then be transported to a local hospital for lacerations and smoke inhalation. A Whittier Police officer would also be treated for smoke inhalation but sustained no significant injuries.

While Hernandez was sticking to his elaborate story, evidence uncovered by LACO Fire Department Arson Investigators would disprove his anecdote. While exploring the apartment, investigators struggled to uncover any broken glass consistent with a Molotov cocktail or similar incendiary device. Furthermore, they discovered a burn pattern consistent with a fire started by a lone cigarette or a similar product.

While the investigation continues, it appears evidence will again disprove another deceitful claim.