Police Identify Homeless Man As Person-Of-Interest In Deadly Seal Beach Duplex Fire

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SEAL BEACH (CBSLA.com) — Police have identified a homeless man as a person of interest in an arson fire that killed a former teacher and his dog in a Seal Beach apartment.

Authorities on Wednesday identified the man as Eric Jesus Andrade, who is nowhere to be found.

They have released several photos of the 37-year-old transient, hoping the public can help track him down.

Investigators said he either took off after witnessing the duplex catching fire or he possibly set the fire.

John Donnelly, 67, and his Jack Russell terrier, Eddie, died in the fire that swept through his home on 17th Street shortly after midnight Saturday.

Police said an incendiary device ignited material outside the building. Donnelly and his dog were found dead in a second-floor unit.

Police said Andrade has a distinctive tattoo on his right elbow.

Anyone who has seen him is asked to contact the Seal Beach Police Department.