RFD NEWS RELEASE
Reno Fire Department investigators have cited two 17-year-olds for negligence after starting the Bain Fire near Geiger Grade and Toll Road.
The two boys were lighting brush on fire to clear a track to ride their motorcycles. Fire investigators have charged one juvenile with a felony for destruction of vegetation by fire caused by gross negligence and the other juvenile for a misdemeanor for negligently setting, guarding or failing to extinguish a fire. The case will now be turned over to the Jan Evans Juvenile Justice Center.
“This serves as an extremely important reminder that parents need to know where their child is, what their child is doing and educate them on the dangers of playing with fire,” advises Fire Marshal Joan Presley. “The Reno Fire Department takes this seriously and will take appropriate action upon determining that a fire has been started by a juvenile. This can include charging a child with arson, which is a felony, if there is intent.”
Parents can also be held responsible for suppression costs and/or civil suits as a result of their children’s actions.
Anyone wanting more information about educating children on the dangers of playing with fire or about the Regional Youth Firesetter Intervention Program can contact the Reno Fire Department at 334-2300 or contact their local fire department.
