BURN BABY BURN

Enormous California Wildfire Was Started by Firework at Gender Reveal Party, Authorities Say

The family that set off the pyrotechnic could face criminal charges and civil penalties.

At least this will be a good anecdote for the kid when they’re older. A raging wildfire in California was started by a pyrotechnic device used at a gender-reveal gathering, according to local authorities. The fire was ignited Saturday morning at El Dorado Ranch Park in Yucaipa and has now scorched 7,050 acres, is only 5 percent contained, and has forced the evacuation of some 3,000 residents.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention said: “With the dry conditions and critical fire weather, it doesn’t take much to start a wildfire. Those responsible for starting fires due to negligence or illegal activity can be held financially and criminally responsible.” Calfire spokesperson Bennett Milloy said the decision to press charges rests with the district attorney, but that the agency will file a “comprehensive report” on the crimes they believe occurred, which could range from misdemeanor fire-starting to felony arson. He said the family, who could also be forced to pay the costs of fighting the fire, is fully cooperating with the investigation.