DENVER, CO — Authorities have arrested 37-year-old Tony Becerra in connection with a massive five-alarm fire that destroyed a construction site on Leetsdale Drive and Forest Street in Denver earlier this month.
The fire, which erupted on January 2, engulfed the Harker Heights complex and covered an area roughly the size of four football fields, making it the largest fire in Denver in decades.
Investigators say surveillance footage shows Becerra entering and leaving the site before the fire started. Authorities also revealed that he misrepresented himself as homeless in an initial 911 call reporting the fire.
Becerra was arrested at his Aurora residence, and while formal charges are still pending, he is expected to face arson charges in the coming days.
The 283-unit building was scheduled to open later this year, but the fire destroyed the structure entirely, affecting nearby businesses and local residents. Fire crews had to use an estimated 18 million gallons of water to bring the flames under control.
“This was one of the most challenging fires our department has faced in decades, both in size and complexity,” said a spokesperson for the Denver Fire Department. “Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the material loss is extensive.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) worked alongside Denver Fire investigators to review the scene and gather evidence linking Becerra to the incident.
Neighbors and businesses in the area expressed shock at the scale of the fire. Many highlighted the impact on the community, including delays in local business operations and increased safety concerns.
Local authorities continue to investigate whether Becerra acted alone and are reviewing additional surveillance footage from the surrounding area.
“This case underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for community reporting,” said a spokesperson for the Aurora Police Department. “We thank the public for tips that helped identify the suspect quickly.”
The Denver construction industry has been closely monitoring the investigation, as the destruction of the Harker Heights complex represents a significant setback in local housing development.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information related to the fire to contact the Denver Fire Department or the ATF tip line.
Originally reported by Jesse Sarles in CBS News.
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