Authorities investigating one of the deadly fires that tore through Los Angeles in January said Wednesday they had arrested a man they believe deliberately started the blaze.

The arrest comes as America's second-largest city is still grappling with the aftermath of two huge fires that together killed 31 people and left thousands of acres (hectares) in ruins, as they displaced thousands of people.

Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, was taken into custody in Florida on suspicion of destruction of property by means of fire, Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli said.

"The complaint alleges that a single person's recklessness caused one of the worst fires Los Angeles has ever seen, resulting in death and widespread destruction in Pacific Palisades," he said.

Rinderknecht is alleged to have ig

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