by Authorities reported that a 13-year-old kid was detained this week on charges of igniting illegal fireworks that caused a blaze in Laguna Beach, California, that burned about five acres and caused power outages and evacuations.
The Laguna Beach Police Department said in a statement that the Rancho fire began just after 2:00 p.m. on Monday as flames spread along a hillside. Community centers were opened as shelters for displaced individuals, and homes on four blocks were ordered to evacuate as the fire grew to 4.6 acres, according to officials.
In a Facebook video, the mayor informed people by 5 p.m. Monday that authorities already thought fireworks were the cause of the fire.
Witnesses reported seeing a minor who may have been involved in setting off fireworks, the police said on Tuesday. According to the police, two minors were arrested for interrogation but were later freed after it was discovered that they had been witnesses.
After obtaining video footage, investigators claimed to have seen another young person light a firecracker and run from the area. The police stated they had a warrant for the suspect’s arrest after identifying him as a 13-year-old youngster.
According to the authorities, the kid was taken into custody on suspicion of felony reckless burning of forest land. Before being returned to his parents, he was processed at police headquarters because there were no injuries or urgent threats to structures. According to the police, the matter will be sent to the district attorney’s office in Orange County for consideration and potential criminal charges.
According to a district attorney’s office spokesman, she was unable to discuss the matter due to California welfare legislation.
About 200 firefighters, two planes, five helicopters, and drones were sent in to fight the fire, according to Laguna Beach fire chief Niko King. Officials also utilized infrared scans to track the fire’s progress and containment attempts.
Just after 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, city officials announced that the evacuation order had been withdrawn. By 8 a.m. on Wednesday, the fire was completely contained, and traffic was allowed to resume on the restricted roadways.
