Laredo marks quieter Fourth of July for fires, though one case ends in arrest

LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) - A 17-year-old is facing an arson charge after Laredo police say surveillance video captured him lighting fireworks that sparked a grass fire near a home on the Fourth of July. The arrest came as the city recorded fewer fires overall compared to the same holiday period last year.

Fewer fires than 2025, but danger remained

Laredo Fire Department responded to six grass fires between 6 p.m. July 4 and 2 a.m. July 5. During the same window in 2025, the department responded to seven structure fires and 16 grass fires.

Crews responded to fires scattered across the city, from parks to highways. Most were contained quickly, but one spread faster than expected before firefighters got it under control. No injuries were reported in connection with the grass fires.

“We just want to remind the community to stay safe. I know fireworks are fun. We love how they look, but they are quite dangerous,” said Sebastian Valero of the Laredo Fire Department. “We do have an increased amount of calls, EMS as well, because of injuries related to fireworks. And unfortunately, some people do lose property because of the fireworks.”

Teen arrested after surveillance video

Laredo police say the incident involving the teenager occurred the afternoon of July 4 in the 5200 block of Opal Road. Surveillance video allegedly shows 17-year-old Carlos Omar Lisama getting out of a car, lighting fireworks, and leaving before the fire started.

Police say Lisama returned to the scene while officers were still investigating. He was charged with arson.

Three structure fires under investigation

Three structure fires were also reported on the Fourth of July. Investigators had not confirmed a cause as of this report. Fireworks are being considered as a possible factor.

Laredo Fire Department reminds residents that fireworks are illegal within city limits.

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