Two Firework Arrests Made Ahead of 4th of July Weekend:
As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, the Petaluma Police Department is reminding the community that fireworks are not only dangerous but can quickly escalate into criminal behavior.
On June 28, 2026, officers responded to the 1700 block of Colwood Drive after a report that a resident intentionally launched a mortar-style firework toward a neighboring home following an ongoing dispute. Earlier that day, the suspect had allegedly threatened the victim.
The firework struck the roof of the residence and burned the area down to the insulation, causing an estimated $1000+ of damage. The incident was captured on video and provided to investigators.
The suspect, Ben Shein (43, Petaluma) was initially uncooperative with officers but later turned himself in. He was arrested and booked on multiple charges related to the incident including felony threats, felony arson, and felony vandalism.
On June 29, 2026, officers conducting proactive patrols along the Lynch Creek Trail contacted Dan Flynn (55, Santa Rosa) who was found to be out of compliance with their own recognizance release terms. During a subsequent search, officers located brass knuckles, an illegal M-150 firecracker, and Oxycodone. The suspect was arrested and booked into the Sonoma County Jail on charges including possession of brass knuckles, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a destructive device/firework, and violation of release conditions.
Petaluma's official Fourth of July Fireworks Show will take place at the Petaluma Fairgrounds (175 Fairgrounds Drive) on Saturday, July 4, 2026. The professional, high-elevation fireworks display begins just after sunset at approximately 9:30 p.m.
If you witness dangerous or illegal firework activity that poses an immediate threat to life or property, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency firework complaints where there is no immediate danger, contact the Petaluma Police Department's non-emergency line, (707) 778-4373.
