HARFORD COUNTY, Md. (WBFF) — Two juveniles, ages 13 and 14, were charged with intentionally setting a vehicle on fire on Sunday morning in Edgewood, according to the Maryland State Fire Marshal.
The fire was reported on May 10 around 8:00 a.m. at the rear of 1812 Pulaski Highway, near Trident Automotive.
Firefighters from the Joppa-Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company and APG Fire Department responded and brought the fire under control in about 20 minutes.
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Officials soon determined that the fire had started in the interior passenger compartment of a small bus parked in the shopping center’s rear lot.
When the fire was initially reported, officials said Harford County deputies saw a thick column of black smoke coming from the area and then noticed one of the juveniles fleeing the scene, which led authorities to quickly identify and arrest those involved.
“I want to thank the Harford County Sheriff’s Office for their quick actions in helping identify those responsible,” Jason M. Mowbray, said in a press release. “Their immediate response and teamwork with our investigators helped bring this case to a quick resolution.”
The investigation found that the juveniles set the fire by igniting materials inside the vehicle, which caused the flames to spread to four nearby cars, and resulted in $20,000 worth of damage, officials reported.
Authorities also noted that charges against a third juvenile involved are still pending.
The two juveniles have been referred to the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services on charges related to arson and malicious burning, according to authorities.
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No injuries were reported from the fire.
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