ESCONDIDO, Calif. (KGTV) — An arrest has been made in connection with an Escondido house fire this week where a man was found unresponsive and later died.
Jose Trinidad Romero, 32, was arrested Wednesday after his truck was stopped by police in Escondido. Investigators said they believe Romero knew the man found unresponsive in the fire, but are unsure of the exact relationship.
On Oct. 4, firefighters and police responded to the fire in the 600 block of Waverly Place. The victim, who has not been publicly identified, was found inside unresponsive. Police said he had injuries consistent with being assaulted before the start of the fire.
RELATED: Man dies after being found unresponsive during Escondido house fire
The man was later pronounced dead at Palomar Medical Center. The manner and cause of his death are still under investigation.
Investigators say evidence at the scene pointed to the fire being deliberately set. Escondido Police, Fire, and the ATF are investigating the specifics of the fire.
Romero has been booked into Vista Detention Facility on murder and arson charges.
Anyone with information is asked to call EPD at 760-839-4722 or 760-743-TIPS (8477).
