A 16-year-old boy has been formally charged following a serious bushfire that erupted in Perth on New Year's Eve, an incident authorities allege was sparked by a thrown firecracker.
Charges Laid Following Major Emergency Response
The teenager, whose identity is protected due to his age, was charged with one count of causing a bushfire. The charges stem from an event on the evening of 31 December 2025, in the suburb of Marangaroo, located in the city's north.
Emergency services were called to the scene as the fire quickly took hold, threatening local properties and vegetation. The blaze prompted a significant response from firefighters who worked to contain the flames and protect the community.
Alleged Ignition Source and Police Investigation
According to a statement from the Western Australia Police Force, the fire was allegedly started when the youth threw a lit firecracker into dry vegetation. The act, occurring during a period of heightened fire risk, led to the rapid spread of flames.
The boy was not arrested at the scene but was later summoned to appear in court. A police spokesperson confirmed the teenager is scheduled to face Perth Children's Court at a later date to answer the charge.
Community Impact and Official Warnings
The incident has underscored the severe dangers of irresponsible behaviour during the Australian summer, a season notoriously prone to bushfires. While no injuries were reported, the fire caused considerable alarm and required valuable emergency service resources that could have been needed elsewhere.
Authorities have reiterated warnings about the use of fireworks and firecrackers, especially during total fire bans or periods of extreme weather. This case serves as a stark reminder that actions which may seem minor can have catastrophic and costly consequences, endangering lives, property, and the environment.
The legal proceedings against the teenager are now underway, with the community awaiting the outcome of the court process.
