Shocking Incident: Probationer Allegedly Sparks House Fire, Self-Injury & Dramatic Rescue

A probationer suspected of intentionally setting fire to a house in Valle Vista, as a failed attempt to evade sheriff’s deputies, later became unconscious due to smoke inhalation and had to be rescued. The suspect, Alexander Mettey, 31, is currently in stable condition at a regional trauma center, following the alleged arson incident that took place on Howard Road in Riverside County.

Sgt. Matt Cramer of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department stated that patrol deputies initially noticed Mettey walking in the area and recognized him as an alleged probation violator who may be armed.

Upon discovering that Mettey was inside a residence in the 25000 block of Howard Road, deputies surrounded the property and instructed the occupants to exit. Several individuals complied, admitting they were familiar with Mettey.

Despite repeated orders to come out, Mettey did not respond. The sheriff’s Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) was then called in to negotiate with him. After hours of negotiation, the SEB members observed signs of a fire within the residence. The situation quickly escalated as the house became engulfed in flames, with Mettey seen trying to escape by breaking windows.

Deputies maintained their positions, hoping for a peaceful resolution. However, when activity ceased inside the residence and Mettey became unconscious, SWAT personnel, Soboba Fire Department firefighters, and Cal Fire firefighters initiated a rescue operation. They breached the windows and walls to enter the house and retrieve Mettey.

Following the incident, Mettey was transported to the hospital for treatment of smoke exposure and other injuries, which were not specified. He remained in stable condition as of Friday. Fortunately, no deputies were harmed during the operation.