Watch CBS News

3 Kids Could Face Charges After Arson At Modesto Elementary School

MODESTO (CBS13) – Investigators are saying arson is to blame for a fire that caused $1.5 million in damage to a Modesto elementary school.

The fire happened on Dec. 29 at Bret Harte Elementary School. The Modesto Fire Department says firefighters got to the scene just before 4 p.m. that day and found a detached wing of the school quickly going up in smoke.

In total, the fire destroyed the school's library, computer lab and two fifth-grade classrooms.

An adjacent wing also suffered heat damage, firefighters say.

Friday, Modesto Fire announced the results of their investigation. Exactly where the fire started has not been determined, but investigators have ruled it was intentionally set.

Three juveniles were interviewed during the investigation. Investigators say the kids have been referred to the district attorney's office and could face charges. It is unclear if the kids are students at the school.

School officials say the campus will reopen on Jan. 16 after winter break.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.