HARVARD, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Deputies arrested a 61-year-old Barstow man suspected of intentionally starting a brush fire that burned approximately 15 acres Sunday afternoon.
The incident occurred at about 12:40 p.m. on April 12, 2026, in the area of Westridge Street and Tami Road, near Harvard.
Deputies from the Barstow Station, along with personnel from the San Bernardino County Fire Department, responded to reports of a multi-acre brush fire, according to a written statement from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
Officials said a witness reported seeing a man later identified as Raymond Mann “walking into a field, kneeling down, and setting fire to a bush.” Due to high winds in the area, the fire quickly spread across several acres.
Authorities said that minutes later, a victim observed Mann outside her residence yelling. She also discovered “a bag of her laundry near the front door had been set on fire, along with a separate burn area on her front lawn.”
Deputies later located Mann at a nearby residence, where he was found in possession of a lighter.
Fire personnel determined that a total of 15 acres of dried brush had burned.
Mann was arrested and booked on charges of PC451(C) – Arson, and PC452(C) – Cause fire of a structure. He was transported to the High Desert Detention Center.
Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact the Barstow Sheriff’s Station at 760-995-8788. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact We-Tip at 844-909-3006 or submit tips online.
Note to readers: If you value our reporting and want to see it continue, consider becoming a monthly supporter. Your contribution helps keep independent, local news accessible to everyone. Support local news today!
