Aurora Man Charged with 26 Felony Arson Counts in Massive Fire

Prosecutors allege Tony Becerra endangered nearby homes, businesses, and a synagogue in the 5-alarm blaze.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:07pm

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Denver prosecutors have filed 26 felony arson charges against Tony Becerra, a 28-year-old Aurora man, for allegedly setting a 5-alarm fire earlier this month that caused millions in damage and took days to extinguish. Becerra had previously been jailed for investigation of three arson charges, and the new filing also includes charges for endangering nearby properties and construction equipment lost in the Jan. 2 blaze.

Why it matters

The devastating fire not only destroyed a 283-unit apartment complex under construction, but also threatened surrounding homes, businesses, and a synagogue in the area, highlighting the serious public safety risks posed by suspected arsonists and the challenges authorities face in addressing repeat offenders with potential mental health issues.

The details

In the formal filing on Jan. 23, Denver prosecutors charged Becerra with 26 felony arson counts, as well as one count of felony burglary and one count of felony criminal mischief, bringing the total number of charges to 28. The charges allege Becerra endangered a nearby paint store, auction gallery, and numerous properties on Dakota Avenue in addition to the under-construction apartment complex that was destroyed.

  • The 5-alarm fire occurred on Jan. 2, 2026.
  • Becerra was arrested on Jan. 13, 2026.
  • The next court date for Becerra is set for Feb. 17, 2026.

The players

Tony Becerra

A 28-year-old Aurora man suspected of setting the 5-alarm fire that caused millions in damage. Becerra had previously been jailed for investigation of three arson charges.

Denver prosecutors

The prosecutors who filed the 26 felony arson charges, as well as one count of felony burglary and one count of felony criminal mischief, against Becerra.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Feb. 17, 2026 whether to allow Becerra to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges authorities face in addressing repeat offenders with potential mental health issues, as well as the serious public safety risks posed by suspected arsonists who can endanger entire neighborhoods with their actions.