On July 5, 2014, a fire erupted at an apartment building in the 1100 block of D Street. Los Banos Police and Fire personnel responded to the apartment fire caused by reckless use of fireworks. Detectives from the Police Department began an arson investigation after learning the blaze was likely started by modified “safe and sane” fireworks.
Two apartments sustained substantial damage as a result of the fire. The occupants of the apartment building were safely evacuated. A Los Banos fire fighter reportedly suffered an injury requiring medical treatment during the blaze.
Detectives served a search warrant in connection with the arson on Monday, July 14, 2014 at an apartment in the 1100 block of D Street. 20-year-old Ricardo Cobian of Los Banos was contacted at the apartment. A search of the apartment revealed evidence connecting Cobian to the altered “safe and sane” fireworks which caused the fire.
Cobian was arrested and charged with arson and causing great bodily injury to emergency personnel. Cobian remains in custody at the Los Banos Police Department Jail in lieu of $100,000.00 bail.
“Nothing good comes from altering “safe and sane” fireworks or using “dangerous” fireworks. This incident caused several thousand dollars in damage; thankfully no one was seriously injured.”
- Gary Brizzee, Chief of Police
To leave an anonymous crime tip call 209-827-7070 Ext. 288. If you have access to a computer and the internet you can also leave an anonymous tip at the Police Department’s web page at www.losbanos.org. At the bottom of the “Contact” page simply click on the “report graffiti and other crime” link or visit the Merced Area Crime Stoppers by telephone at 1-855-725-2420, or at www.mercedareacrimestoppers.org
