Document reveals Clayton Fire suspect's vehicle believed to be spotted at 17 brush fires
LOWER LAKE, Calif. (KGO) -- The man investigators say set numerous Lake County Fires, including the Clayton Fire made his first court appearance Wednesday.
PHOTOS: Crews battle massive Clayton Fire in Lake County
That is where investigators interviewed Damin Pashilk after he was arrested. According to a probable cause document, investigators have surveillance video of a vehicle they believe is his at 17 roadside arsons. In one case, a witness reported seeing the driver of that vehicle throw something out the window.
Pashilk entered the courtroom with his back turned to cameras after he passed out in the hallway. He told the judge he was OK and mumbled yes when the judge asked if he understood the charges.
WATCH VIDEO: Clayton Fire suspect enters no plea in court
The Clayton Fire is the most significant fire Pashilk is accused of setting. "He set a fire that caused mass destruction in this county," Deputy District Attorney Richard Hinchcliff said.
The Clayton Fire destroyed at least 100 homes. "I'm just surrounded by all this turmoil and it's not right," fire victim's friennd Donna Hansen said.
Pashilk faces a total of 19 charges. He is charged with 12 counts of arson and 1 count of attempted arson. Other counts include charges for possession of meth and traffic offenses, including driving on a suspended license.
RELATED: I-TEAM: Clayton Fire suspect had training as a firefighter
According to the probable cause document, Pashilk's vehicle was spotted on 17 separate occasions of roadside grass and brush fires between July 2, 2015 and August 13, 2016 - the date of the Clayton Fire. Only then did investigators say they had enough evidence to establish probable cause. "You get one shot at this. If you take your shot too soon, you jeopardize bringing someone to justice who truly needs to be brought to justice," Lake County Sheriff Brian Martin said.
Two days after the Clayton Fire, during his interview at the sheriff's office, Pashilk could not provide an explanation to being at the ignition sites of the fires. "He did not express any remorse whatsoever. Yes, he denied involvement," Hinchcliff said.
RELATED: Lake County arson suspect's cousin 'doesn't really surprise me'
The deputy district attorney says investigators do not have any evidence Pashilk intentionally targeted anyone nor do they have a motive. "We believe he was acting alone," Hinchcliff said.
Pashilk has a court appointed attorney. "All I can say is he's presumed innocent until proven guilty," David M. said.
If found guilty, Pashilk could spend the rest of his life in prison. He's being held on $5 million bail. He is expected back in court for a plea hearing on September 7 at 8:15 a.m.
For full information on school closures, evacuation centers, and donation information, click here.
Click here for full coverage on the Clayton Fire and click here for full coverage on last year's Valley Fire.
