Three arrested following large brush fire

CREATED Mar. 18, 2013

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Web Producer: Taylor Higgins
 
TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - Marana police arrested a group of juveniles following a large brush fire on the northside.  
 
Adam Goldberg with the Northwest Fire District tells KGUN9 that firefighters responded to the Santa Cruz River, between the Twin Peaks Road and Cortero Farms Road exits just before 5:00 p.m. Monday after several people called 9-1-1 to report a brush fire. 
 
Crews had a difficult time accessing the fire and had to use hand tools and a brush truck in order to fight the flames, according to Goldberg. 
 
Goldberg estimates the wind-driven fire grew to about a half an acre in size. 
 
Witnesses told firefighters that several kids may have been responsible for starting the fire, Goldberg said. 
 
As a result, Marana police responded to investigate. 
 
Goldberg says two 11-year-old boys and one 15-year-old boy were cited for reckless burning and released back to their parents. 
 
Goldberg warns that with the recent surge in temperatures and high winds, the risk of fire is greater. He urges parents to talk to their children about fire safety and make sure kids don't have access to matches, lighters and other ignition sources.
 
Marana police continue to investigate the cause of the fire. KGUN 9 On Your Side will have more on this story as new information becomes available. Stay with us.