On July 8th, the police arrested a 13-year-old boy suspected of causing a wildfire at Laguna Beach, California by setting off fireworks. The flames spread across the hillside of Laguna Beach around 2 p.m. on July 7th, forcing the emergency evacuation of some communities in this coastal town in Southern California. With the support of fixed-wing aircraft dropping water, the fire department successfully contained the fire to approximately 4 acres the following day, with no casualties or building damage reported.
Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters were informed by multiple witnesses that a teenager was seen setting off fireworks in the area, prompting the authorities to launch an investigation. Laguna Beach police patrol officers quickly located and brought in two teenagers for questioning, but they were eventually cleared as suspects. Subsequently, the police obtained a video showing another teenager igniting fireworks and fleeing the scene.
The authorities stated that investigators immediately collaborated with fire investigation experts to determine the cause of the fire. After several hours of thorough investigation, the police identified the suspect and obtained arrest and search warrants to confiscate electronic devices.
The 13-year-old boy was then arrested on charges of “reckless burning of forest land,” but as the fire did not result in casualties or property damage, he was released to his parents. The case will be referred to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office for review, and criminal charges may be brought depending on the circumstances.
In a statement released on July 8th, Laguna Beach Police Chief Jeff Calvert commended the active involvement of the community, enabling law enforcement to respond swiftly and effectively. Fire Chief Niko King credited the rapid containment of the fire to the city’s wildfire preparedness. In a Facebook post, he praised the collaborative effort that involved aerial support, ground personnel, communications, and logistics as a model of regional cooperation.
The police urge anyone with information on the incident or related videos to contact the Laguna Beach Police Department promptly to provide leads.