Lakewood – A man suspected of starting an apartment fire on July 6 that left 11 families homeless has turned himself in to Lakewood police, authorities said.
Steven Valdez, 43, is being held on suspicion of several charges, including first-degree arson, second-degree arson, fourth-degree arson and criminal mischief, said Micki Trost of The West Metro Fire Department.
Valdez, who turned himself in to police at about 8:30 p.m. Monday, will be arraigned Thursday or Friday, Trost said.
West Metro Fire officials said the blaze at 652 Urban Court was started by fireworks in a bush in front of the building.
A large portion of the 12-unit Ridgemoor apartment building was destroyed. There were no injuries to firefighters or residents. The Red Cross is assisting the families affected by the blaxe.
Staff writer Ann Schrader can be reached at 303-278-3217 or aschrader@denverpost.com.
