Investigators Say Deadly Fire In Seal Beach Was Arson

SEAL BEACH (CBSLA.com) — Someone deliberately set a fire that killed a 67-year-old man and his dog in Seal Beach, police said Monday.

Flames broke out shorlty after midnight Saturday, killing John Donnelly and his mixed-breed pet in his two-story duplex in the 200 block of 17th Street.

A police dog found evidence of an accelerant outside the building, prompting investigators to suspect arson, according to Seal Beach police Sgt. Phil Gonshak.

Police were looking for neighbors to provide surveillance video that might help investigators, Gonshak said.

He said detectives are "encouraging anyone who knew of any issues" Donnelly may have had with anyone else to call investigators,

Anyone with information was asked to call Detective Pete Krok at (562) 799-4100, ext. 1110.

The fire caused about $520,000 in damage, said Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Steve Concialdi.