A 14-year-old boy is facing an arson charge after a Dec. 5 fire tore through the Burlington store in New Braunfels, according to city officials. Investigators say store surveillance video and witness statements pointed them to the teen, who allegedly admitted to setting the blaze.
Fire Marshal's Office: Intentional Blaze
The New Braunfels Fire Marshal’s Office says the Dec. 5 fire at the 400 block of Creekside Way was intentionally set by a juvenile, News4SanAntonio reports. Fire and police crews responded to the blaze around 10:45 p.m., and the suspect later confessed and was taken into custody.
Surveillance And Witness Accounts
Video from inside the store reportedly shows the teen setting the fire with a 14-year-old girl, who was later questioned but will not face charges, the San Antonio Express-News reports. Burlington is located at 410 Creekside Way in Creekside Town Center. Investigators are still reviewing evidence as the case moves through the juvenile system.
What The Law Says
Under Texas law, intentionally starting a fire that damages property is a felony. Many arson cases are treated as second-degree felonies, with harsher penalties when someone is hurt or a home is targeted, according to the Texas Penal Code. Juvenile cases typically go through county juvenile services and courts that aim to balance public safety with rehabilitation, per Guadalupe County Juvenile Services.
Next Steps In The Case
Authorities say the boy was booked into the Guadalupe County Detention Center after his arrest, and the New Braunfels Fire Department publicly thanked community members who helped during the investigation, News4SanAntonio reported. Because he is under 18, officials are not releasing his name as the case proceeds through juvenile court. The Fire Marshal’s Office says the investigation is still active.
