Actor Brian J. White and neighbors intervened to stop a man with a flamethrower during nearby wildfires in Los Angeles
Los Angeles: Last week, Brian J. White, known for his role in “Chicago Fire,” and his neighbors took action against a man wielding a flamethrower. This happened near the Kenneth Fire, which was threatening their homes.
White was ready to evacuate when he heard his neighbors yelling outside. They were confronting 33-year-old Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva, who was trying to set fire to a trash can filled with leaves.
Before this, Sierra-Leyva had been chased away after attempting to ignite an old Christmas tree. White and his neighbors managed to corner him in a front yard and held him until the police arrived.
During the confrontation, White tried to keep things calm, recalling his police ride-alongs where staying cool is key. He made it clear that he wasn’t interested in explanations while Sierra-Leyva stood there with a lit blowtorch.
As they waited for the police, Sierra-Leyva became aggressive, claiming he was just looking for a place to hang out. The neighbors firmly told him they were making a citizen’s arrest.
Police later arrested Sierra-Leyva, charging him with a felony probation violation but not arson due to lack of evidence. The neighbors felt this was suspicious, especially with the fires approaching their area.
After his arrest, ICE placed a detainer on Sierra-Leyva, but it might not be honored because of California’s sanctuary laws. White felt proud of his quick decision to protect his family and appreciated the support from his neighbors.
The Kenneth Fire had already burned over 1,000 acres before it was contained a few days later. White expressed relief knowing his community is vigilant and ready to act in emergencies.
