Man Accused of Going on Tree-Killing Spree with Chainsaw Arrested 

After numerous trees were cut down throughout Los Angeles, a suspect has been arrested in connection with the crime.

On Tuesday, April 22, the Los Angeles Police Department announced the arrest of Samuel Patrick Groft, who is accused of felony vandalism for allegedly using a chainsaw to cut down trees in the areas of downtown Los Angeles, the Westlake District, and Glassell Park.

The L.A. resident was arrested around 4:30 p.m., local time that same day, when LAPD Rampart Detectives located him near Custer Avenue and West Sunset Boulevard. His bail was set to $150,000, per online jail records reviewed by PEOPLE.

Groft’s arrest comes shortly after a community alert was issued by the LAPD, warning to “use caution and do not approach.”

Police said detectives located evidence linking Groft to the cutting down of trees on April 17, 18, 19 and 22. The trees were cut down throughout various times of the day, including around 12:00 a.m., at the 500 block of North Broadway Avenue and around 2:00 p.m., in the 300 block of Treadwell Street.

While an investigation is underway, police estimated during a press conference on Wednesday that the number of trees cut down was 11, according to KNBC. The damage to at least eight of the trees is estimated to add up to $347,000, per the outlet.

“I have never seen anyone go and attack trees, especially around the time of Earth Day. Everybody wanted to know who did it and why. We know the who. The why will be part of the investigation,” said LAPD Commander Lilian Carranza at the press conference, per KNBC.

In the press release, police said Groft’s booking photo was being released because detectives are “seeking additional victims as they believe the suspect may be responsible for additional unreported crimes.” PEOPLE has reached out to the LAPD for comment.

Mayor Karen Bass spoke out about the incident in a statement obtained by KABC-TV, calling it “truly beyond comprehension.”

“City public works crews are assessing the damage and we will be making plans to quickly replace these damaged trees,” the statement said. “LAPD has opened an investigation into what happened and those responsible must be held accountable.”

According to KTTV, City Councilwoman Ysabel Jurado introduced a motion Wednesday that will come before the council’s public works and public safety committees to increase fines for anyone who injures or cuts city trees.

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Anyone with information related to the tree-cutting incident is asked to call the LAPD Rampart Burglary Theft Detectives at (213) 484-3490. Calls during non-business hours or the weekend should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).