Burbank PD News Release: Arson Suspect Arrested

A 27-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a fire that was deliberately set in a department store.

On March 29, 2026, at around 11:00 p.m., Burbank Police officers and Burbank Fire Department personnel responded to reports of a fire inside a store in the 1800 block of Empire Avenue. When they arrived, all customers and employees had safely evacuated, and firefighters promptly extinguished the flames.

No serious injuries were reported; however, the fire caused extensive damage to the store, including the loss of merchandise, smoke contamination, and structural damage. Estimated losses are currently in the millions of dollars, and the store remains closed for repairs.

Investigators conducted a comprehensive investigation, which included interviewing witnesses, canvassing for evidence, and collecting and reviewing surveillance video. During the criminal investigation, it was determined that the fire originated in the store's bedding section and was intentionally set by a female suspect. Investigators noted no other individuals were present in the area and no accidental ignition sources were identified.

On March 30, 2026, Detectives located the suspect, identified as 27-year-old Stephanie Irene Mendoza of San Fernando, at a nearby hotel, where she was taken into custody without incident.

Ms. Mendoza was booked for violation of California Penal Code section 451(b) (arson), a felony.

On April 2, 2026, the case was presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, which filed one count of 451(c) PC.

This case remains under investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Burbank Police Department Investigations Division at (818) 238-3210.

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Questions regarding this statement should be directed to Lieutenant Brent Fekety at (818) 238-3231 or [email protected].

Stephanie Irene Mendoza