The Doña Ana County Sheriff¹s Department and the Doña Ana County Fire and Emergency Service Department are jointly investigating a Jan. 10 arson in Mesquite, and a former Mesquite volunteer firefighter has been arrested in the case.

Diego Salinas was a probationary firefighter who had recently applied to join the department. Investigators believe he paid two juveniles $75 each to start the fire in an abandoned mobile home at #25 Fuentes Lane.

Salinas faces multiple felony counts, including arson, conspiracy to commit arson and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

The two boys, both 15, also were arrested. They are Johnny Garduno and Nicolas Torres, both of Mesquite.

An arson investigation determined that the fire was started in a cabinet inside the home. The mobile home, valued at about $6,000 was destroyed in the blaze. A passing motorist called 911 to request emergency responders.

Salinas could face additional charges as the investigation continues.

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Reporters seeking more information or interviews may call county Public Information Director Jess Williams at (575) 525-5801.