Arizona man accused of burning down $40,000 Christmas tree

An Arizona man is accused of burning down Mesa's town Christmas tree. (Fox 10 Phoenix)

Mesa Police officials say a man has been arrested, on suspicion of arson and criminal damage for allegedly burning the city's $40,000 Christmas tree.

The nearly four-story tall tree is the focal point of Mesa's annual Christmas celebration. It was destroyed by a fire early Wednesday that police say was intentionally set.

According to police, 34-year-old Samuel Antone Johnson was found nearby, and allegedly admitted to setting the "Merry Main Christmas Tree" on fire with a book of matches.

Police say the man did not disclose a motive.

Johnson has been booked into jail on two felonies, and it is not clear if he has a lawyer yet.