Suspected arsonist identified in fire that threatened Fresno homes. He drives a Lexus

A suspected arsonist — believed to be responsible for a grass fire that threatened homes in Fresno Thursday afternoon — has been identified.

Curtis Carlton Evans, 67, is wanted and has an active warrant for his arrest in connection with the arson on Cornelia Avenue between Clinton and McKinley.

Fresno Fire said Evans was known to drive a 2003 Lexus ES, Oasis Green Pearl, California license 5BSJ454.

The fire posed a danger as it spread east towards six houses due to a rising wind. Crews were able to extinguish the fire.

One firefighter suffered a back injury and another was overcome by exposure to the heat, firefighters said. The temperature at that time was over 100 degrees.

Both firefighters are fine.

The fire was deemed suspicious. Another fire broke out a few blocks before this one.

Deputy Fire Marshal Jay Tracy said Evans is a suspect in other fires under investigation. No further charges have been filed at this time, Tracy said.

Anyone with information can call 911 or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 559-498-7867 or the Fresno Fire Department Fire Hotline at 559-621-2767.