13-Year-Old Arrested for Fireworks-Caused Laguna Beach Brush Fire

A 13-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the Rancho Fire, a brush fire that ignited near Rancho Laguna Road and Morningside Drive in Laguna Beach, California, forcing evacuations and mobilizing a large firefighting response including water-dropping aircraft. Witnesses reported seeing a juvenile setting off fireworks shortly before the fire started, and video evidence later confirmed a juvenile suspect lighting a firework and fleeing the scene. The fire burned approximately four acres of dense brush but no structures were damaged and no injuries were reported; evacuation orders were lifted once firefighters contained the blaze. The boy was taken into custody on suspicion of felony reckless burning of forest land but was released to his parents after processing, as Orange County Juvenile Hall declined to admit him due to the absence of injuries or immediate structural threats. The case has been submitted to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office for review and possible criminal charges. Police Chief Jeff Calvert emphasized the community’s engagement and cooperation as vital to public safety and effective response.