Arson suspect said he 'liked the smell of burning leaves,' another 'enjoyed causing chaos': LAPD

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- An arson suspect who was arrested Tuesday in Pacoima admitted he started a small fire that burned a tree "because he liked the smell of burning leaves," according to Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell.

Speaking at a Wednesday morning news conference, McDonnell said officers responded about 5:15 p.m. to a radio call of a possible arsonist in the area of Glenoaks and Van Nuys boulevards.

A citizen had extinguished the fire and detained the suspect, who was then detained by police.

The suspect was booked on suspicion of arson. His name was not released.

Hours later, around 9:30 p.m., firefighters responded to multiple reports of a suspect setting multiple piles of trash on fire near the intersection of Vermont Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard in East Hollywood.

Aerial images captured the moment flames from the Palisades Fire formed what appeared to be a fire tornado. According to the National Weather Service, this can be fueled by intense heat and high winds.

The firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze and officers took the unidentified suspect into custody, McDonnell said.

"The suspect admitted to setting multiple fires that day and stated that she enjoyed causing chaos and destruction," the police chief said. She was booked for arson.

The two suspects were apprehended outside of the burn areas of the Eaton and Palisades fires. There was no immediate indication that they were connected to the major fires burning in Los Angeles County.

"As we continue to manage this historic, catastrophic event, we want to express our gratitude to everyone who has provided tips and remained vigilant in keeping the city safe," McDonnell said.

Family members continue to identify the residents who were killed in the Southern California wildfires as the death toll rises to 25.

Dozens of others have been arrested for looting, burglary and violating curfews or other violations. One person was arrested on Tuesday night for impersonating a firefighter.

DA's office has started charging some of those arrested

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman promised that the consequences would be "swift and significant" for anyone violating the law.

Hochman said his office is also investigating price gouging concerns.

Hochman called price gouging "particularly despicable" because offenders are taking advantage of desperate people who need somewhere to stay.

Hochman said charity and insurance scams have also been reported. He encouraged people to check out any charities before donating to them and avoid sending cash or bitcoin.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.