Man sentenced to prison, to pay $1 million restitution for 2019 downtown Lovelock arson
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Mon, 03/15/2021 - 9:30am
The Nevada Department of Public Safety, State Fire Marshal Division investigation into the fire that occurred on November 17, 2019, in downtown Lovelock and the subsequent trial concluded on Jan. 22, 2021.
Oscar Yocundo Cruz-Gonzalez was convicted of three counts of first-degree arson and sentenced to a minimum term of 60 months and for a maximum term of 180 months for each count and a restitution payment of $1,039,573.00.
The fire occurred in downtown Lovelock damaging three buildings: the Pershing Pub, the Treasures Bookstore, and a former law office building. Damage caused by the arson was estimated to be approximately $1.9 million.
The Lovelock Volunteer Fire Department contacted the Nevada State Fire Marshal to conduct the investigation. Investigators discovered that Gonzalez used an open flame to lit material on the exterior of a structure. Once the fire, grew it ignited the structure. The fire then progressed into the other two structures.
“Arson is a serious and dangerous crime,” said Investigator Joel Martin. “The State Fire Marshal’s priority is the safety of the public. We are glad that no one was physically injured and that the arsonist who started this incident will pay for his crimes.”
The Nevada DPS, State Fire Marshal Division encourages anyone who may have information about possible arson to contact the Arson Hotline at 1-844-682-7766. Callers can remain anonymous.
