BRADENTON, Fla. (WWSB) – Three boys are in custody after Bradenton Police say they caused a boat fire June 13 at the Twin Dolphin Marina, near the Riverwalk.

The fire on the boat, which was docked next to the Green Bridge, was reported around 1:30 p.m. by a 911 caller who told police moments before the fire, he saw several juveniles fire something off of the bridge. A second 911 caller also reported witnessing the event.

Police say the three, ages 14, 12 and 11, fired a flare gun from the Green Bridge, which set the flybridge of the 45-foot yacht ablaze.

Detectives obtained CCTV video from city cameras located on the Riverwalk. The video appeared to show three juveniles with flare guns shortly before and after the fire started.

The juveniles were later positively identified and questioned with their parents’ cooperation, police said.

The 14-year-old was charged with first-degree arson, possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by a minor under 18, and discharging a firearm in public or on residential property.

The 11- and 12-year-olds each are charged with possession of a firearm by a minor and discharging a firearm in public or on residential property.

The three were transported to the Manatee Juvenile Detention Center.

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