Three Teenagers, Ages Ranging from 15 to 17, Charged With Arson in Relation to Pasadena Elementary Dumpster Blaze and Several Other Area Fires


Anne Arundel County Fire officials announced today the charges of three teens, ages ranging from 15-17, with several area fires, including the dumpster fire at Pasadena Elementary School.

On January 30th at approximately 2:40 a.m. firefighters responded to a dumpster fire at the Pasadena Elementary School, located at 401 Pasadena Road. The dumpster was located away from any structures and quickly extinguished.

Firefighters notified members of the Anne Arundel County Fire Department Fire and Explosives Investigation Unit. Through their investigation, they obtained evidence and the video. 
Pasa ES Dumpster fire 3a

Fire investigators received an anonymous tip following the release of the video from Pasadena Elementary School. The anonymous tip in combination with physical evidence collected from the scene resulted in three juveniles being charged with arson in relation to several fires in the area:

  • February 2- Fire set to the exterior of a church
  • February 2 - Gasoline pours set on fire across the Pasadena Elementary basketball court
  • January 30- Dumpster Fire Pasadena Elementary
  • January 30- Pile of Leaves on the church playground
  • January 6- Burned playground equipment at the church playground
  • January 4 - Small fire at set at the exterior of a church
  • December 12 - Butterfly Box burned at the church playground

The fires caused several thousand dollars worth of damage but there were no injuries.

Fortunately, the incident has not impacted daily operations at the school.  "Please know that none of the incidents has disrupted our school operations," the school principal said in a letter to families.  "I want to thank those of you who responded to the Fire Department’s call for more information."

This remains an active and open investigation. Anyone who has information or is aware of previously unreported fires in the area are encouraged to contact investigators. They may be contacted at the TIPS line at (410)222-TIPS or by using the online form. Individuals may remain anonymous using either means of contact.

Comments