SFPD Arrests an Arson Suspect in the Richmond District 25-067

On May 26, 2025, San Francisco Police officers working in plainclothes capacity were conducting patrol in the Richmond District following recent suspicious fires that occurred in the area.

Officers were around La Playa and Balboa Streets at approximately 1:30 a.m., when they observed a male, later identified as 29-year-old Joseph Martinez, igniting objects while walking in a park. Officers later observed a large active working fire.

The San Francisco Fire Department responded to the scene to extinguish the fire.

Officers canvassed the area and located Martinez and placed him under arrest.

Martinez was booked into San Francisco County Jail for the following charge: arson (451 PC), possession of incendiary device with the intent to set fire to structure or forest land (453 (a) PC), possession of methamphetamine (11377(a) HS), possession of controlled substance (11350(a) HS), and possession of drug paraphernalia (11364 HS).

SFPD is aware of several recent suspicious fires in the Richmond District, and we are continuing to work with the San Francisco Fire Department in our joint Arson Task Force to investigate these cases.

Although an arrest has been made, this remains an open and active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the SFPD at 415-575-4444 or Text a Tip to TIP411 and begin the message with SFPD.

SFPD Case# 250293302