Arson Suspect Sought After Fire Injures Three in Imperial Beach

San Diego Sheriff's Deputies are searching for a man suspected of starting a fire at an apartment complex in Imperial Beach early Tuesday morning, which resulted in injuries to three individuals. The fire was reported at approximately 1:36 a.m. on the 1300 block of Imperial Beach Blvd., prompting the evacuation of four apartment units, according to Imperial Beach Fire Department Capt. Jason Bell.

Two of the injured were transported to a local hospital, though the severity of their injuries remains unclear. The Sheriff's Department is treating the incident as a potential arson. The suspect is described as a bald man in his 40s, wearing a blue-and-black button-up shirt. Capt. Bell emphasized the importance of functional smoke detectors, urging residents to check their batteries for safety. The Red Cross is assisting seven displaced residents, and Imperial Beach Blvd. was closed for several hours between 13th and 15th streets.