Press Release
Title: Suspect arrested for numerous arson fires in the Sonoma Valley
Case Number: 210218-012
Author: Deputy Brandon Jones
On 2-18-21 at approximately 12:30 PM, Sheriff Deputies were called to 18800 block of Polley Lane in the unincorporated community of El Verano, CA for a report of a vehicle on fire. Deputies arrived on scene and found a Honda Accord fully engulfed in flames. Deputies recognized the vehicle as belonging to Renee Ruth Fitzhugh, a 36 year old Sonoma resident. Fitzhugh was contacted and detained a short distance away from the vehicle fire. The Sonoma Valley Fire Department responded and determined the vehicle had deliberately been set on fire.
After interviewing several witnesses, Deputies believed Fitzhugh was responsible for burning her own vehicle as well as additional fires that had occurred recently throughout the Sonoma Valley. Detectives from the Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Unit assumed the investigation and were able to link Fitzhugh to a total of four arson fires; including fires in the 18400 block of 1st Ave in Boyes Hot Springs, the 200 block of West Napa St in Sonoma, and the 19500 block of Cypress Rd in El Verano. In total, the locations included 2 residences, 1 garbage dumpster, and one vehicle.
Fitzhugh was arrested and booked into Sonoma County Jail for charges including Arson and Probation Violation.
