On July 4, 2026, the Petaluma Police Department responded to two separate incidents in which illegal fireworks were reported to have caused fires within the community. In both cases, officers worked in coordination with the Petaluma Fire Department to contain the fires and prevent further damage.
The first incident occurred at approximately 10:43 p.m., when a community member reported a brush fire in the area near Hopper Street and Lakeville Street. Officers arrived on scene and located several fires on both sides of the SMART train tracks. Working alongside the Petaluma Fire Department, crews were able to contain the fires before they spread any further. The cause of the fires was determined to be aerial fireworks. Photographs of the suspected fireworks believed to be responsible for igniting the fires have been included with this release.
The second incident was reported at approximately 2:03 a.m., when a residence was reported to be on fire. Officers arrived on scene and determined that an aerial firework had ignited a fence to a residence in the area of Hidden Valley Drive and Cross Creek Street. Officers and fire personnel were able to extinguish the fire before it spread to the residence.
In both incidents, officers deployed drones to assess the affected areas, attempt to locate any suspects, and provide the fire department with useful information to help coordinate firefighting efforts. Officers and Fire Inspectors are continuing to follow up by reviewing video surveillance from the surrounding areas. At this time, no suspects have been identified.
The Petaluma Police Department reminds the public that the use of illegal fireworks poses a serious fire and safety risk to the community. Anyone with information regarding these incidents is encouraged to contact the Petaluma Police Department.
