A woman has been accused of starting a fire that resulted in substantial losses, amounting to millions of dollars, at a Target store in Burbank. The incident has sparked considerable concern within the community.
Authorities have charged 27-year-old Stephanie Irene Mendoza from San Fernando with arson. The charges follow allegations that she ignited a fire in the store’s bedding section at approximately 11 p.m. on March 29. Despite the alarming situation, thankfully, there were no injuries reported among the customers present at the time.
Significant damage has been reported, with the fire impacting merchandise, causing smoke contamination, and inflicting structural damage. These damages have collectively led to costs reaching into the millions. As a result, the Target store, situated at 1800 Empire Ave., remains closed as assessments and repairs are underway.
In the aftermath of the incident, law enforcement officials located Mendoza at a nearby hotel the following day. The arrest has brought some relief, although the community continues to grapple with the repercussions of the event.
Damages from blaze have reached into the millions of dollars, including lost merchandise, smoke contamination and structural damage.
Police found Mendoza a nearby hotel a day after the fire.
“Investigators conducted a comprehensive investigation, which included interviewing witnesses, canvassing for evidence, and collecting and reviewing surveillance video,” the Burbank Police Department said.
At the time of the fire, authorities safely evacuated customers and employees from the area while firefighters put out the flames. It’s unclear why Mendoza allegedly set the fire or when the store will reopen.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office charged Mendoza with one felony count of arson to a commercial building, which can carry a prison sentence of several years.
The case is still under investigation.
