Arson charges filed in downtown Visalia fire

Tulare County District Attorney Tim Ward announced criminal charges on Wednesday related to the downtown Visalia fire on Sunday.

Jessie Hager, 56, is charged with two felony counts of arson for allegedly starting a dumpster fire that spread to nearby businesses. Hagar was arraigned on Thursday and pled not guilty.

Bail was set at $275,000. His next court day is a preliminary hearing conference set for May 16 in Department 4. If convicted of all charges, Hager faces up to 6 years, 8 months in state prison.

The case and separate fire incidents that occurred are still under investigation. If anyone has further information regarding the incidents, they should contact the Visalia Police Department.

Three businesses were impacted by the flames — Alejandra’s, décor to Adore and Jimmy Johns. The fire also happened near the historic Fox Theatre, but there was no damage to the theatre.