Boy, 13, arrested for starting Laguna Beach blaze with fireworks: LBPD
Share this @internewscast.com


A 13-year-old boy has been arrested for allegedly lighting the fireworks that started the Rancho Fire in Laguna Beach.

The fire, which forced evacuations and grew to about 4 acres before firefighters gained control, had been linked by several witnesses to reports of fireworks in the minutes before smoke became visible near Morningside Drive and Rancho Laguna Road.

“As flames spread along the Rancho Laguna hillside, multiple witnesses reported seeing a juvenile in the area possibly involved in setting off fireworks,” the Laguna Beach Police Department said in a news release.

The boy, whose identity has not been released, was arrested Monday after two other youths were questioned by officers and “determined to be witnesses, not suspects.”

“After hours of investigative work, detectives identified the juvenile responsible and obtained search warrants for his arrest and the seizure of electronic devices,” police said, adding that they also obtained video of the 13-year-old detonating the fireworks.

“This case is a perfect example of what makes Laguna Beach unique—an engaged community that works hand in hand with its police department,” Chief Jeff Calvert said in the release. “When our residents speak up, we’re able to respond quickly and effectively. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and this outcome reflects that.”

The boy faces a possible charge of felony charge of reckless burning of forest land, though “due to the absence of any injuries or immediate threat to structures, Orange County Juvenile Hall would not accept the suspect for booking.”

He was processed at the Laguna Beach Police Department and released to his parents, officials added.

The case has been submitted to the O.C. District Attorney’s Office for the filing of possible charges.

Anyone with more information is asked to call 949-715-0984.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Jonesborough Kicks Off 11th Annual Chocolate Fest Celebration

In the heart of Jonesborough, Tennessee, a delectable tradition has once again…

Suspect Fleeing Troopers on I-4 Apprehended Following PIT Maneuver in Orange County

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – A man taken into custody Friday evening in…

Breaking: Unidentified Remains Discovered Amidst Palm Bay Missing Person Case Investigation

PALM BAY, Fla. – Authorities in Palm Bay are currently awaiting results…

Southwest Virginia Leaders Express Concerns Over Redistricting Special Election Approval

The Virginia Supreme Court has granted permission for Democrats to organize a…

Iran’s Crown Prince Warns That Silence on Tehran’s Actions Strengthens Aggressors Ahead of Protests

MUNICH — As international eyes turn to Munich, Germany, supporters of Iran’s…

Kingsport Resident Arrested in Major Child Pornography Sting by SCSO

In Kingsport, Tennessee, a significant development has emerged following an investigation into…

ICE Locates 29 Individuals in Recent Local Operation, Reports Sheriff’s Office

BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) — A recent initiative carried out by Immigration and…

Capture the Romance: Experience a Picture-Perfect Valentine’s Day in Central Florida

ORLANDO, Fla. – This Valentine’s Day promises a delightful blend of sunshine…

Unpaid and Overworked: TSA Agents Face New Challenges Amid Government Shutdown

The recent closure of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which commenced…

US-Iran Nuclear Negotiations: Critical Geneva Talks to Shape Future Diplomacy

GENEVA – The United States and Iran are set to engage in…

Renowned Cattle Specialist Leads Interactive Workshop for Students in Blountville

In Blountville, Tennessee, aspiring livestock handlers had the opportunity to learn from…

Rubio Offers Hope for Stronger Trans-Atlantic Relations Amid Year of Strained Europe Ties

MUNICH – On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio offered a…