Suspect Arrested for Recklessly Starting a Fire 
On Wednesday, September 21 at approximately 2:20 PM, Petaluma Police and Fire Departments responded to a report of a vegetation fire at Steamer Landing peninsula. While Petaluma FD suppressed the approximate 2-acre fire, officers detained a suspect reportedly seen leaving the area where the fire started. A witness positively identified the suspect. Suspect Gary Dobshinsky, a 50-year-old transient was arrested for recklessly causing the fire. Suspect Dobshinsky was found to have an outstanding felony warrant and was in possessing narcotic paraphernalia. Suspect Dobshinsky was also on Post Release Community Supervision. The fire was contained within approximately 25 minutes and there was no injuries or structures damaged. We wish to thank the witness for reporting the fire promptly and for Petaluma FD’s quick response. The Petaluma River Park Foundation is working to transform the peninsula into a 24-acre public park in the heart of Petaluma. The park is currently open during daytime hours. If anyone observes any suspicious behavior while in the park, please call the Petaluma Police Department at 707-778-4326.
Media inquiries may be directed to Lieutenant Tim Lyons at [email protected] or phone 707-778-4372. PPD Case 22-4065.
Address/Location
Petaluma Police Department
969 Petaluma Blvd N
Petaluma, CA 94952
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 707-778-4372
TEXT-A-TIP - Text TIP PETPD followed by your message, to 888777
