Four teens arrested in connection with wildfire

Illegal fireworks sparked flames that grew quickly

GILROY » Police on Thursday announced the arrests of four teenagers in connection with the Ballybunion Fire, which has burned 100 acres near a golf course community in west Gilroy.

The foursome was spotted lighting illegal fireworks Sunday night on a hillside near the 1900 block of Ballybunion Court, according to police. Flames ignited and the teens tried to extinguish them, but they quickly spread out of control.

As of Thursday night, the blaze was 100 percent contained, according to Cal Fire.

No homes were damaged or threatened, but one firefighter was transported to a hospital after falling about 40 feet.

He was evaluated at Saint Louise Regional Hospital and released.

The teens, ages 14 to 15, were arrested on suspicion of unlawfully causing a fire and released to the custody of their parents.

Police said the case has been sent to the Santa Clara County Juvenile Probation Department for review and prosecution.

Although arrests have been made, the investigation is continuing. Anyone with information about the case can contact arson investigator Mitch Madruga at 408846- 0350.