San Rafael brush fire blamed on fireworks
A Novato man was arrested after police said he sparked a grass fire with fireworks.
The incident reported around 6 p.m. Tuesday. The small fire was reported outside an apartment complex on Cresta Way. Residents were evacuated. No one was hurt.
Witnesses recalled hearing an explosion before the fire broke out. They were able to identify the suspect, police Sgt. Justin Graham said.
Cary J. Newman, 54, was arrested on suspicion of causing a fire, possessing explosives, and having fewer than 25 pounds of fireworks. He admitted that he caused the fire and also had homemade fireworks in his vehicle, police reported. Fireworks are prohibited in Marin County.
Newman was booked into Marin County Jail. Bail was set at $849, according to jail records.