Man suspected of starting Dolan Fire in Big Sur facing new charges

SALINAS, Calif. (KION) A Fresno man accused of starting the Dolan Fire is facing new charges, and he pleaded not guilty to the additional charges in court Thursday.

The new charges show that the suspect, Ivan Gomez, allegedly started the fire with the intent to cause damage to property and cause injuries, and the Monterey County District Attorney's Office calls the incident "premeditated."

Gomez was arrested on arson charges when the fire started in August, but now he is also facing aggravated arson, which means he is accused of deliberately setting the fire with the intent to injure or cause damage with premeditation. He pleaded not guilty to arson in August.

One of the qualifications for the charge is damage or losses that exceed $8.3 million due to the fire. If convicted of the charge, he could face ten years to life in prison.

The DA's Office said the judge in the case believes there is enough evidence to support the charges and send the case to trial.

Gomez previously underwent a mental health evaluation, and he was found competent to stand trial.

He is expected to be back in court in mid-December.

The Monterey County Sheriff's Office said Gomez was detained near the origin of the Dolan fire at around 8 p.m. on Aug. 18 in the John Little State Natural Reserve.

The fire has burned 124,924 acres and is 98% contained