Particle.news
Download on the App Store

San Jose Police Arrest Jose Rodriguez-Barragan in January Vehicle Arsons

Investigators credit surveillance analysis plus neighborhood canvassing for identifying the 30-year-old suspect.

Overview

  • Police say the suspect set about five fires on Jan. 21 and about six on Jan. 27 at locations across San Jose.
  • Rodriguez-Barragan, described by police as an unhoused San Jose resident, was arrested Jan. 30 and booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail on arson, drug charges, and multiple outstanding warrants.
  • Authorities report the blazes damaged or destroyed approximately 19 vehicles as detectives continue to assess possible links to additional recent arson reports.
  • San Jose’s police chief and fire chief said the incidents endangered neighborhoods and firefighters and highlighted cross-agency collaboration and technology in the investigation.
  • A check of online jail records Monday did not show the suspect still in custody, and arraignment timing was not yet available.