Arsonist From 1981 Fire Denied Parole

A convicted arsonist from a 1981 blaze in North Hollywood that claimed the life of a Los Angeles firefighter was denied parole earlier this month following heavy opposition from fire officials and Councilman Paul Krekorian.

Mario Catanio was found guilty more than three decades ago of igniting Cugee's Restaurant at 5300 Lankershim Boulevard for hire by the businesse's owners.

While battling the blaze on Jan. 28, 1981, firefighter Thomas G. Taylor lost his life. 

Catanio, who was 42 and working as a barber at the time, was paid $2,500 to burn Cugees down so owners Henry Martinez and Arlene Boyle could cash in on their insurance policy.

Both Martinez and Boyle were given 10-year sentences, while Catanio was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. He's been eligible for parole since 1997.

"You demonstrated your leadership by reminding the Parole Board that lnmate Catanio still remains a threat to your community, public safety, and to all Firefighters statewide," Frank Lima, president of United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, IAFF Local 112 wrote to the Councilmember after news of the parole rejection was announced.

There’s a plaque on the building at 5300 Lankershim Boulevard at the corner of Weddington to commemorate Taylor's life.