Cypress Tree Fires Plague Fresno County Cemeteries, Motive and Suspect Unknown
Arsonists have set fire to cypress trees in Fresno County cemeteries, leaving investigators without a motive or suspect. The fires began in January 2023, targeting old cypress trees across a 160-acre complex of six different cemeteries.
Initially suspected to be related to a nearby homeless encampment, the problem escalated after the encampment was relocated. Sheri Manning-Cartwright of Ararat Armenian Cemetery noted the loss of 21 trees, including eight in a single incident on April 13th.
Chief Paco Balderama of Fresno Police acknowledged the community’s concerns about being targeted and confirmed that a suspect and motive remain unknown. On Monday night, two police officers investigating a separate matter witnessed a cedar tree on fire and alerted authorities. Despite efforts involving 15 police officers and a CHP helicopter, the arsonist escaped.
Manning-Cartwright observed that the cypress trees combust quickly and dramatically, potentially attracting the arsonist. The cemetery board is considering security cameras and the community has offered a $2,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Valley Crime Stoppers encourages anonymous tips.
