Man Arrested for Setting Off Fireworks, Starting a Fire Behind an Apartment Building
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SAN RAFAEL —A man arrested allegedly set off fireworks which caused a fire behind an apartment building on Cresta Way. Cary J. Newman, a 54-year-old Novato resident, was booked at Marin County Jail.
In a prepared statement San Rafael police said. “Witnesses reported hearing an explosion just before the fire started. Witnesses pointed out Newman as the person seen setting off fireworks when the fire started.”
San Rafael police and firefighters responded to the brush fire on May 7. Apartment residents nearby evacuated as a precaution. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the fire was quickly extinguished.
Officers who detained Newman learned he set off homemade fireworks that caused the fire. Newman admitted to possessing additional homemade fireworks inside his car. Newman faces charges for causing a fire, possession of dangerous fireworks, and making/possessing/transporting of fireworks.
The University of California Berkeley Bomb Squad helped San Rafael police take possession of the homemade fireworks. Fireworks manufacturing materials were also confiscated as evidence.
Newman has had prior legal problems involving fireworks, fire, and drugs. Last year, Newman was arrested for possession of an explosive device and materials to make an explosive device. He also has previous arrests for causing a fire, and possession of a controlled substance for sale.
Marin County prohibits all fireworks. Persons who violate the county fireworks prohibition can be held criminally or civilly liable. Anyone with information about the fireworks and brush fire incident can call San Rafael police at 415-485-3000.
