Man attempted to light ex-girlfriend's car, house on fire during child abduction in Whittier
WHITTIER, California. (KABC) -- Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies have taken a man into custody who allegedly attempted to abduct his own child in Whittier before taking off.
Investigators said the 28-year-old Joshua David Diaz violated a restraining order and entered the home in the 10000 block of Inez Avenue, where his child and ex-girlfriend live.
Diaz forced his way inside and attempted suicide, sheriff's deputies said. He then grabbed his child and, after a brief struggle with his ex-girlfriend, ran outside.
Diaz then poured gasoline on his ex-girlfriend's car, driveway and home.
Before he could light the gasoline, deputies spotted him and Diaz took off on foot.
The neighborhood was placed on lockdown and a perimeter was put up. Diaz was taken into custody without incident.
Family and neighbors told Eyewitness News that Diaz was recently released from prison.
He was arrested for attempted arson, stalking, burglary and violation of a domestic protection order. He was being held on $150,000 bail.
