Barstow Man Arrested for Throwing Molotov Cocktails at Homes

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BARSTOW, Calif. – A 44-year-old Barstow man was arrested for arson, attempted arson to an inhabited structure and vandalism.

The arrest came as a result of several different related incidents beginning in August 2018. The first incident was vandalism in the 100 block of East Mountain View Street and the second was an attempted arson in the 400 block of Avenue B. During the investigation, four addition incidents of arson and attempted arson occurred in the 1200 block of Cabrillo Drive and the 100 block of East Mountain View Street.

Evidence collected led to search warrants leading to the identification of 44-year-old Valentin Gonzalez as one of the suspects. It was learned that Gonzalez targeted several residences and vehicles. The victim’s properties were struck with Molotov Cocktails. Gonzalez was contacted and arrested on Thursday, June 20, 2019, at 10:34 a.m. in the 1300 block of East Mountain View Street.

The circumstances surrounding these incidents are still under investigation. Anyone with information regarding these incidents are urged to contact Detective D’Andrea or the Barstow Police Department at 760-256-2211. People with information who wish to remain anonymous can contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME or at wetip.com.