RIVERSIDE – (INT) – A Perris man on probation for evading police has been arrested in connection with a series of June 1st acts of vandalism and looting that followed a peaceful demonstration in downtown Riverside.

Gabriel Castillo, 20, is seen on a video, getting out of a car at University Avenue and Orange Street and lighting a large firework. A bystander tossed it back into Castillo’s car followed by an immediate explosion. A woman was seen running from the car and another female in the back seat was seen in a separate video getting out after the blast. Authorities did not say if anyone was injured.

See video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_PdHEItC8E

Castillo fled but was arrested June 23rd during a probation search of his home.

Meantime, investigators are reviewing eight surveillance videos in an attempt to identify others involved in the rioting.

Story Date: July 17, 2020