Suspect in arson connected to Dolan Fire found competent
SALINAS, Calif. (KION)
UPDATE 9/23/2020 10 a.m. An arson suspect charged in connection to the Dolan Fire has been found competent after a mental health evaluation.
The suspect, Ivan Gomez, is in custody at the Monterey County Jail. He has already pleaded not guilty.
Gomez was originally detained near the origin of the fire in the John Little State Natural Reserve at about the time it started. He was booked into the Monterey County Jail and charged with arson of forest lands.
The Dolan Fire has burned 128,417 acres and is 40% contained.
PREVIOUS STORY: Court proceedings are on hold for a suspect charged with arson in connection to the Dolan Fire burning in the Big Sur area.
Officials with the District Attorney's Office tell KION that the suspect, 30-year-old Ivan Gomez, is facing a mental health competency hearing.
Gomez was originally detained near the origin of the fire in the John Little State Natural Reserve at about the time it started. He was booked into the Monterey County Jail and charged with arson of forest lands.
Since it started last month, the fire has grown to 125,559 acres, and it is 40% contained.
