Former Kentucky Football Player Heroically Confronts Suspected Arsonist in Los Angeles
Scott Mitchell, a former University of Kentucky wide receiver who played during the 2004 and 2005 seasons, found himself in an unexpected real-life pursuit over the weekend that felt more like an action movie than a peaceful morning hike. While enjoying a Sunday walk in the hills just outside Los Angeles with his girlfriend, Davanah DiMarco, Mitchell’s instincts — honed on the football field — kicked in when he witnessed what he believes to be a crime in progress: arson.
The couple’s calm outing took a dramatic turn when they spotted a tree ablaze, shortly followed by the appearance of a man walking away from the smoldering scene. Mitchell recounted the moment to NBC News, saying he initially noticed the burning tree and then, almost simultaneously, realized someone may have deliberately started the fire. “Oh wait, that tree’s on fire,” he recalled telling DiMarco. Then, upon seeing the suspicious man leaving the area, he exclaimed, “Hey, that guy lit that tree on fire. He started that fire. Get him!”
As the realization sunk in, the man — later identified as 43-year-old Andrew Wistic O’Calliham — had already gained a head start of about 150 yards. But that didn’t stop Mitchell. Though it had been years since his days as a collegiate athlete, he instinctively took off in full sprint down the hillside after the suspect. “Even without digging, I was able to chase that guy down,” Mitchell said, somewhat surprised by his own speed and endurance. “I didn’t know I still had it, I’m not going to lie.”
Mitchell’s pursuit paid off. He quickly caught up with the man and, alongside a few other hikers who had witnessed the incident or joined in the effort, ensured O’Calliham was detained at the scene while law enforcement made their way up the hill. The team effort paid off as they were able to keep the suspect from fleeing until authorities arrived.
When Los Angeles County officials arrived, O’Calliham was arrested and later booked on suspicion of arson on either a structure or forest land — a serious offense, especially in the dry, fire-prone Southern California hills. He is currently being held on $75,000 bail as the investigation continues.
This act of courage by Mitchell drew significant attention not just because of the dramatic nature of the pursuit, but because it was carried out by someone who had long left the world of competitive athletics behind. The story of a former college football player tapping into old instincts to prevent a potential wildfire captured headlines across the country.
Mitchell, for his part, downplayed the heroism, saying that it was simply a matter of doing the right thing. However, the physical feat of chasing down a suspect on uneven terrain, years removed from formal training or conditioning, stunned even him. The quick reflexes, burst of speed, and relentless drive he once used on the gridiron clearly hadn’t abandoned him.
While the full scope of damage from the fire wasn’t detailed, the potential consequences of the blaze could have been catastrophic. Southern California is no stranger to devastating wildfires, and with the region’s ongoing issues with drought and high winds, any spark — let alone a deliberately set fire — can spiral into a massive emergency. Mitchell’s quick action may very well have prevented a disaster.
Beyond the physical heroics, the event underscores the importance of citizen awareness and intervention, especially in outdoor settings. Though people are generally advised not to confront suspects directly due to safety concerns, Mitchell’s athleticism and quick thinking gave him an edge most wouldn’t have. Still, many officials caution that such actions can be dangerous and shouldn’t be attempted unless there’s a clear and safe path forward.
Davanah DiMarco, Mitchell’s girlfriend, praised his bravery, noting how quickly he shifted from relaxed hiker to determined protector. It was a shocking yet inspiring moment to witness, she told reporters. Her admiration was echoed by other witnesses, who watched in awe as the former athlete took off down the trail in pursuit of the suspect.
This isn’t the first time a former athlete has made headlines for jumping into real-life action, but Mitchell’s story stands out because of the timing, his modesty, and the very serious threat that was neutralized by his actions. Wildfires cost lives, destroy homes, and ravage landscapes. Every second counts in stopping them — especially in their earliest stages. Mitchell’s awareness, decision-making, and pursuit made a huge difference in this case.
As the legal process unfolds, authorities will work to determine exactly what led to the fire and whether the suspect has a history of similar behavior. O’Calliham, identified as a homeless man, has not yet released a statement or entered a plea in the case. It’s unclear what motivated the alleged arson, but the consequences could have been severe — had Mitchell and others not intervened.
The moment has prompted reflection from Mitchell himself, who admitted the incident reignited something deep inside him. “It brought me back,” he said. “Not just to football, but to that sense of having a job to do and doing it.” That instinct to act, honed during years of training and gameplay, proved invaluable on a quiet hillside trail.
As stories like these circulate, they not only remind us of the unpredictable nature of life but also highlight how past experiences — even seemingly distant ones — can become crucial when the unexpected happens. Mitchell’s brief return to action wasn’t for a touchdown, a catch, or a win on the scoreboard, but for public safety. And in many ways, it was one of the most important plays of his life.
The local community has begun to recognize Mitchell’s quick thinking, with social media posts and messages praising his courage. While Mitchell remains humble, his story will likely be shared as an example of how anyone, at any time, can step up and make a real difference.
In the days ahead, officials will continue to monitor the fire site, assess any environmental damage, and ensure that justice is served. But thanks to a former Wildcat’s quick sprint and strong instincts, a potentially dangerous situation was swiftly brought under control — and Los Angeles may have just gained an unexpected local hero.
