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A frightening scene unfolded in downtown Fresno as a tree burst into flames and a nearby school caught fire during a World Cup watch party, with the dramatic blaze unfolding live on television after authorities say an illegal firework was detonated.
Fans had gathered at the Rainbow Ballroom to watch the FIFA match between Mexico and England, dancing and cheering before kickoff and celebrating throughout the closely fought game, which went down to the final seconds.
But as a FOX26 reporter broadcast live from outside the venue, flames suddenly erupted behind her.
Video showed what appeared to be a large tree engulfed in flames across the street from the Rainbow Ballroom, with fire shooting into the sky and spreading toward a neighboring building as police and fire crews rushed to the scene.
Firefighters were seen hosing down the burning tree at the corner of Broadway while emergency vehicles filled the area.
Authorities also tended to a man described as being slightly impaired outside the Rainbow Ballroom, while crews managed to extinguish flames that had spread to the nearby structure.
According to Fresno Police Lt. Castillo, officers had been stationed throughout downtown Fresno over the holiday weekend because of ongoing festivities when they responded to reports of a disturbance near Kepler School.
While investigating, officers noticed two vehicles parked near the school. Seconds after an illegal firework was detonated, a nearby tree caught fire, Castillo said.
The flames spread to Kepler School, causing damage to part of the roof.
No students or staff were injured, and officials said the school’s structure did not sustain significant damage.
The fire was one of several incidents tied to illegal fireworks that authorities said created problems throughout the holiday weekend.
The investigation remains ongoing.
English (US)