Oakdale man convicted of arson in 2024 Modesto strip mall fire
An Oakdale man faces a 12-year prison sentence after being convicted of setting fire to a Modesto strip mall, causing extensive damage, according to the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office.
Along with the arson conviction, jurors found that Julio Garibay Jr., 31, had a prior conviction for a serious felony. His formal sentencing is scheduled for May 28.
The fire broke out Nov. 19, 2024, at a strip mall on 15th Street. Investigators with the Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigation Unit determined the blaze was suspicious and launched a probe with assistance from the Modesto Police Department.
Surveillance footage obtained during the investigation showed Garibay pouring a flammable liquid on an electrical panel at the mall. He then broke a window to a vacant suite and entered the building. Minutes after he exited, flames erupted from the suite.
Authorities have not disclosed the total cost of damages or whether any businesses remain closed as a result of the blaze.
