Police suspect arson after man found dead in Phelan

PHELAN, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Police are investigating an outbuilding fire in Phelan as an apparent case of arson after a man was found deceased.

At about 2:17 am on Saturday, December 21, 2019, a deputy on patrol observed an outbuilding/shed/ on fire in the 8600 block of Phelan Road, officials said.

According to a sheriff’s news release, Fire personnel responded to the location and extinguished the fire. “The victim was located just outside the outbuilding and pronounced deceased at the scene,” stated the release.

Detectives from the Sheriff’s Homicide and the Bomb and Arson responded to conduct the investigation.

“Through investigation, investigators determined that the victim was living in the outbuilding without the permission of the homeowner. The homeowners were not home when the fire occurred,” stated the release.

Officials said the cause of the fire remains under investigation and an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death. The deceased Adult male is pending identification and notification of next of kin. 

Updates will be provided as information becomes available.

The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are asking anyone with information related to this incident contact the Homicide Detail, Detective Mike Cleary at (909)387-3589 or Sheriff’s dispatch at (909) 387-8313. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at (800)78-CRIME or www.wetip.com

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