Youth with fireworks cited for SE Bend blaze

A juvenile playing with fireworks sparked a brushfire along the railroad tracks behind a southeast Bend home Monday afternoon, but neighbors with hoses helped fire crews keep the blaze from spreading, officials said.

The youth, who was not named, was cited by police for reckless burning and referred to Deschutes County juvenile authorities for further action, said Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki.

The fire was reported around 1:45 p.m. along the railroad tracks behind a home in the 400 block of SE Railroad Avenue, Derlacki said, adding that the fire was contained to 1/10th of an acre.

As summer progresses, the fire official warned, grass and brush continue to dry out. Add some wind, and a fire can quickly spread out of control, cause serious damage to property and even threaten lives.

“We ask all residents and visitors to help keep our community safe,” Derlacki wrote. “Fireworks are illegal on many public lands, and we ask that fireworks not be used in town.”

The fire official said human-caused fires make up “a good portion” of summer wildfires – and if caused by fireworks, those responsible could be cited for at least reckless burning – or even arson, if serious enough.