Suspect Captured in Gruesome North Phoenix Fire Incident

Two individuals lost their lives in a mobile home fire in north Phoenix on November 24. The city’s police department has confirmed that a suspect has been detained in connection with the incident.

The fire erupted around 9:40 a.m. near the intersection of Cave Creek Road and Union Hills Drive, quickly engulfing one trailer and damaging a neighboring unit.

Witness Susan Marian described the rapid spread, stating, “It just started off with a slight bit of smoke and in seconds it just went kapoof.” The blaze, she noted, spread with alarming speed.

Three people suffered burn injuries, with at least one reported in critical condition. Tragically, two others were pronounced dead at the scene.

On November 27, police arrested 22-year-old Joel Hernandez Anaya after he allegedly made incriminating remarks about the fire. Anaya faces charges of manslaughter and attempted manslaughter.

Investigators determined the fire’s origin was in the living room, near burned clothing. Anaya reportedly confessed to pouring gasoline on the clothing and lighting it with a cigarette. He claimed the fire was “accidental” and expressed remorse during questioning.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been disclosed. Eyewitness Marisol Ross Lopez recounted hearing what she believed was an explosion before witnessing the flames engulf her friend’s trailer. “I ran. I ran crying because I couldn’t do nothing,” she said, expressing her distress over the situation.

In the aftermath, five residents from the damaged second trailer have been displaced. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among firefighters. Phoenix fire officials are currently conducting an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire.