David Spade offers $5K reward to anyone who catches arsonists lighting fires in LA

David Spade, star of Grown Ups, has taken to social media to offer a cash reward for anyone who helps authorities catch individuals attempting to start fires in Los Angeles. His offer comes amidst ongoing devastation caused by wildfires in the region.

On January 9, local authorities announced the detention of a man suspected by residents of trying to ignite fires in the Woodland Hills area of Los Angeles. The suspect was reportedly seen riding a bicycle while carrying a blow torch, allegedly attempting to set garbage cans and discarded Christmas trees ablaze, according to Fox 11 Los Angeles. Residents quickly alerted the police.

Although the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) initially believed the man’s actions were intentional, LAPD Assistant Chief Dominic Choi later stated during a January 10 press conference that there wasn’t sufficient evidence to charge him with arson. Instead, the suspect was arrested for a felony probation violation.

“After the interview and additional investigative steps, looking at some additional evidence that was present, they made the determination that there was not enough probable cause to arrest this person on arson or suspicion of arson,” Choi explained. He also expressed gratitude toward the community for their vigilance in bringing the incident to the police’s attention. The investigation remains ongoing.

In response to the alarming situation, comedian and actor David Spade used his Instagram story to urge Los Angeles residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity related to fire-starting. He also offered a $5,000 reward for actionable information.

“There’s guys lighting fires out there, making this situation worse. They just caught somebody who we’re pretty sure was lighting fires, walking around with a blow torch, but they let him go,” Spade said. “So if you can find someone lighting a fire, and you can catch them and get the cops to bust them and throw them in jail, I’ll give you 5,000 bucks.” He added a warning to avoid staging fake incidents, emphasizing the seriousness of the offer.

Spade warned followers to not ‘fake it though’ (Instagram/ @davidspade)

Spade’s announcement has drawn praise online, with social media users commending his proactive stance. One Twitter user called him a “true patriot,” while another joked, “Did not have arson bounty hunter vigilante David Spade on my bingo card.”

For those looking to support wildfire relief efforts, donations can be made to the Red Cross online, by calling (800) 733-2767, or by texting REDCROSS to 90999.