The Rancho, which burned nearly five acres in Laguna Beach, prompted evacuations and caused power outages. A 13-year-old boy was arrested this week, accused of setting off illegal fireworks that sparked a wildfire in Laguna Beach, Calif., that burned nearly five acres and led to evacuations and power outages, the authorities said.

California residents who lit illegal fireworks over the July 4 holiday may be in for a nasty surprise in the mail thanks to covert fire department operations.

An 8-year-old girl died in Southern California after being caught in an explosion at an illegal fireworks show, police reported. A homeowner set up a large display of illegal fireworks in a Buena Park street at 9:45 p.