Two Transients Arrested In Separate Victorville Arson Cases Within 24 Hours
VICTORVILLE, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Two transient men were arrested in separate arson investigations less than 24 hours apart in Victorville this week.
The first incident occurred Monday, Aug. 3, 2026, at about 3:28 a.m. in the 14200 block of Valley Center Drive.
According to information provided by Victorville Police Department Public Information Officer Socorro Cuevas, deputies responded to a Denny’s restaurant following reports of a white male transient setting shopping carts on fire.
When deputies arrived, they contacted the suspect, identified as 72-year-old William Walzak. Personnel from the Victorville Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the fire.
Walzak was arrested in the area of Seventh Street and Green Tree Boulevard before being booked at the High Desert Detention Center on suspicion of violating California Penal Code 451(d), arson of personal property.
According to San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department inmate booking logs, Walzak was released from custody on Aug. 5, 2026.
The second incident occurred about 22 hours later, on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, at approximately 1:31 a.m. in the 13400 block of Mariposa Road.
According to Cuevas, deputies responded to reports of a subject intentionally setting fire to a field. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Robert Murillo, fled the area before deputies arrived but was later located nearby.
Murillo was arrested and booked at the High Desert Detention Center on suspicion of arson of forest land, recklessly causing a fire, resisting or obstructing a peace officer, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of unlawful drug paraphernalia.
Jail records show Murillo remains in custody in lieu of $70,000 bail. He was scheduled to appear in Victorville Superior Court on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026.
No injuries were reported in either incident. The Victorville Police Department is handling both investigations.
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!
