Fresno restaurateur Bobby Salazar released from jail as he faces arson and firearms charges

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Well-known Fresno restaurant owner Robert "Bobby" Salazar was released from the Fresno County Jail Friday evening after spending three nights in custody on federal charges.

Salazar, 63, was arrested Tuesday on two felony arson-related charges. Prosecutors allege he hired the leader of a local motorcycle gang in April 2024 to set fire to one of his namesake restaurants in central Fresno. Investigators say burned gas cans were found inside the building, and Salazar later collected nearly $1 million in insurance money.

Salazar pleaded not guilty Thursday during a federal court appearance. Prosecutors also filed additional charges after investigators discovered five firearms at his home, including four with serial numbers removed and one ghost gun.

When asked about the allegations, Salazar told Action News, "I'm innocent until proven guilty. They're just trying to ruin my name." He declined to answer further questions as he left jail with his wife Friday night.

Community members expressed disappointment over the allegations. Fresno resident Michael Trujillo said the news was "disheartening."

"When business owners go outside their means to resolve an issue, we definitely need to be careful who we support," Trujillo said.

Action News has reached out to the federal court clerk for details on Salazar's bail conditions and is awaiting a response.