Arsonist caught from above

On February 23, 2014, at approximately 7:00 p.m., San Xavier District deputies and the Sheriff’s Department Air Unit responded to multiple brush fires in the southeast quadrant of Alvernon Way and Valencia Road. The Air Unit was the first to arrive and located a suspect running away from the fire. The suspect was observed lighting several additional fires while running from the area, which is described as a water retention basin.

The Sheriff’s Department Air Unit directed responding deputies to the location of the suspect. After a short foot chase, the suspect, who was identified as 33-year-old Derek Jones, was taken into custody.

The Sheriff’s Department Arson Unit responded and took over the investigation. Their further investigation resulted in Derek Jones being arrested and transported to the Pima County Adult Detention Center. He was booked on nine counts each of Arson of Property and Burning of Wild Lands.

Additionally, the Mental Health Support Team (MHST) is also involved in the follow-up investigation.