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Stranger throws lit fireworks into family's yard, sparking flames

Neighbors prevent spread of fire
Posted at 11:37 PM, Jun 28, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-29 14:23:34-04

A Las Vegas family learns just how dangerous fireworks can be after they say a stranger aimed one at their home near Mt. Hood Street and Owens Avenue.

“We hear this really loud boom,” said Rachel Johnson, “looked outside and then there’s this huge flame shooting up our tree.”

Neighbors jumped into action. Johnson says they used water and dirt to extinguish the flames. Neighbor Johnny Behrend is one of the Good Samaritans.

“An Altima pulled up to the front of the lady’s house and threw a firework that exploded,” said Behrend.

Witnesses say the car sped away.

“It’s not great that we live on a main street,” said Johnson.

Thankfully, there’s only some charring at the base of a tree. Johnson knows that it could’ve been much worse.

“We’re just concerned that it escalates and someone gets hurt,” said Johnson.

13 Action News spoke with Las Vegas Fire Department spokesman Tim Szymanski about how you can protect yourself and your property this 4th of July.

“Keep your yard clean and green,” said Szymanski, “Green things don’t burn.”

Szymanski says even a cigarette tossed in the yard can burn down a home with the wind and dry vegetation during the summer months.

You want to make sure to prune dead leaves off trees and water your shrubs. Firefighters say all fireworks are illegal on July 5th.