SANTA MONICA, CA — Police have arrested Marco Antonio Rubio, 36, for allegedly setting four fires across Santa Monica on Saturday afternoon.
Details of the Fires
According to the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD), the fires were ignited between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. at multiple locations:
- 1000 block of Colorado Avenue – Cardboard and a pillow caught fire.
- Memorial Park (1400 block of Olympic Blvd.) – A little league batting cage net was burned.
- 1500 block of 18th Street – A parked car was engulfed in flames.
- 16th Street & Michigan Avenue – A mattress was set on fire.
Swift Arrest and Investigation
Rubio was arrested later that same day near Broadway and 20th Street. Officers found him in possession of:
- A lighter
- An aerosol canister
Technology in Action
“In a swift and coordinated response, the police department utilized aerial drone technology to assist in the investigation,” SMPD said in a statement.
Suspect’s Criminal History & Bail
Rubio has a criminal record including:
- Resisting arrest in California
- Multiple prior arrests in Texas, including domestic violence and assault-related offenses
Bail Set At: $75,000
What’s Next?
Authorities have not released additional details. Rubio remains in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.
