3 elementary school students arrested for East Naples brush fire
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3 elementary school students arrested for East Naples brush fire on Friday. Video by fox4now.com
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NAPLES, Fla.- Did child's play put Collier County homeowners in danger? Authorities arresting 3 elementary school students accused of starting a brush fire in East Naples.
Leonardo Dirienzo says he followed emergency crews to his home on Friday, a clear sign something was going on in his East Naples neighborhood.
"I was coming home on US 41, coming south, some cops coming behind me. I just saw all this black smoke coming from the area," said Leonardo.
The brush fire happened on Sitterley lane. Crews with the East Naples Fire Department fought flames for nearly 30 minutes.
The fire threatened at least 3 nearby homes and this fire doesn't appear to be any accident. According to Collier County Sheriff's Office, 3 elementary school kids have been arrested, two 10-year-olds and a 9-year-old.
According to reports, witnesses saw the kids playing with gasoline and a lighter. The kids eventually were taken away in handcuffs. The East Naples Fire Chief says responding to this brush fire is estimated to cost thousands. So who will pay?
"Of course a court could impose cost to the responsible parties for that. In this case, we would not charge responsible parties that comes under law enforcement," said Kingman Schuldt.
Fire Chief Schuldt says with very dry conditions in Southwest Florida, it is important to talk with your kids.
" We need to make sure the children are watched and most importantly educate them on the dangers of wild fire," said Schuldt.
Fox 4 reached out to the families of each of the children involved, but was not able to get comment.
Each child faces a single felony charge of intentional burning of land.
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