California Restaurateur Arrested for Alleged Arson Spree and Insurance Fraud

Robert “Bobby” Salazar, a well-known restaurant owner in California, was taken into custody after authorities linked him to a series of fires over the past few years. The 63-year-old proprietor of Bobby Salazar’s Taqueria, which operates in three locations, is accused of deliberately setting five properties ablaze between 2020 and 2024, in addition to attempting to intimidate employees and seeking revenge against his sister’s ex-husband.

Salazar allegedly orchestrated fires at various sites tied to personal conflicts and business disputes. Notably, he is accused of tossing a Molotov cocktail at his ex-brother-in-law’s residence shortly after their separation. Investigators found evidence that days before the incident, the ex-husband discovered an unburned Molotov in nearby bushes, and he received a threatening call from Salazar warning, “looks like somebody got you.”

The chain of arson attacks extended to a law office representing a former employee who refused Salazar’s alleged attempt to bribe her with $20,000 to drop her lawsuit. Subsequently, other employees’ vehicles were set ablaze using gasoline, and authorities found burn injuries linked to these actions. One location, a restaurant, was intentionally destroyed by arson after Salazar allegedly hired accomplices, despite the franchisee terminating the lease.

Throughout the investigation, authorities uncovered incriminating text messages exchanged between Salazar and alleged co-conspirators, including a motorcycle club president. The messages indicated intent and involvement, with references to paid hits and criminal risks taken.

Prosecutors also noted that Salazar increased his insurance coverage shortly before the fires, boosting his potential claim to a startling $1 million. He was released on a $1 million bond last Friday, facing charges of arson for destructive property fires and further federal felony arson. Authorities also discovered illegal firearms at his residence, suggesting potential additional charges pending.

The suspect openly boasted about his willingness to use fire for criminal purposes, according to court documents. Investigators continue to scrutinize his activities as they build a case for potential additional charges.