Suspected hotel arsonist arrested
October 14, 2013
Santa Maria police arrested a 57-year-old man suspected of setting a fire early Saturday morning that injured seven and left dozens homeless.
Shortly before 3 a.m., residents of the residential hotel at 215 Broadway reported the blaze. Firefighters arrived to find people attempting to escape the flames and smoke by hanging out windows.
Emergency medical personnel transported seven people who were suffering from minor injuries and smoke inhalation to local hospitals.
Investigators discovered gasoline and other evidence at the scene which led to the arrest of Amos Andrews. Officers booked Andrews into the Santa Barbara County Jail on arson and attempted murder charges.
Investigators have estimated damages to be over $1.4 million.
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