Vandalism and Arson Arrest in Lemon Grove 

October 20, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that deputies investigating reports of vandalism and several small fires in Lemon Grove quickly identified and arrested the man responsible for setting both fires and damaging Toyota of Lemon Grove.

On October 18, 2026, at approximately 9:02 p.m., Lemon Grove Deputies responded to the 6800 block of Federal Boulevard, Lemon Grove for a report of a suspicious person vandalizing the business by throwing rocks through a window.

At the same time, the California Highway Patrol was investigating a brush fire along Highway 94 in the same area. While deputies and CHP officers were on scene, a second fire was reported in a trash can in the 6800 block of Central Avenue. Rancho San Diego Deputies arrived to assist with the investigation and located a male matching the suspect description.

Deputies contacted an adult male identified as Jose Garcia (DOB 11/30/1978). Garcia admitted to intentionally starting both fires and to throwing a rock through the dealership window.

Garcia was arrested for violations of 451(d) PC (arson of property), 451(c) PC (arson of a structure or forest land), and 594(b)(1) PC (vandalism over four hundred dollars). Garcia was transported and booked into San Diego Central Jail.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Sheriff's Office at (858) 868‑3200. You can remain anonymous by calling San Diego County Crime Stoppers at (888) 580‑8477.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Office