Teen accused of starting playground fire in Surprise

'Suspicious' fire in Surprise caught on camera

A shocking video shows a playground going up in flames in Surprise, and the cause is still undetermined. FOX 10's Taylor Wirtz reports.

SURPRISE, Ariz. - A teen has been arrested after shocking video taken in the West Valley showed a playground going up in flames.

What we know:

The fire happened at the Kingswood Parke community in Surprise on July 5. In the video, flames and smoke can be seen billowing off the playground.

"I've never seen anything happen like this in this area before," said Surprise Vice Mayor Jack Hastings.

On July 11, police announced that a 15-year-old boy had been arrested in connection with the fire.

"Investigators determined the fire was started by fireworks that the teen played with while unsupervised," police said.

The teen is accused of criminal damage and reckless burning. 

What we don't know:

The teen wasn't identified.

Local perspective:

Tom Arnold has lived near this playground for 20 years. Generations of his family have played there.

"My granddaughter, since she could walk," Arnold said. "I am here almost every day because it's a great walking path."

When he heard what had happened at the park, Arnold drove right over to see it for himself.

"When something like this happens, it affects everybody," Arnold said. "You know, I drive by or walk right by on my bike, and you see the little kids, and it’s sad."

What's next:

No one was hurt in the fire, but police say it will be weeks before families can play at the park since the fire caused significant damage.