Video Shows Teens Firing Fireworks, Allegedly Sparking Deadly Washington Wildfire

Newly released video captures a group of young people firing fireworks from the bed of a truck along a highway, an incident authorities allege sparked a deadly wildfire that destroyed 19 homes and claimed the life of a motorist in central Washington state. The video, obtained by King 5, reportedly shows Michael Yakimov, 18, and others discharging Roman candles from a vehicle on US Highway 97 shortly after midnight on July 4.

"Shoot it at them, shoot at it them!" someone is heard shouting in the clip, accompanied by laughter and the sounds of explosions.

Investigators believe one of these fireworks ignited the Chelan Hills Fire, which rapidly grew into a 15.6-square-mile blaze. The fire resulted in the death of Robert Lister, a 69-year-old Orondo resident, whose vehicle reportedly veered off a road and caught fire. The inferno also destroyed over 100 structures, including 19 homes.

The explosive device, identified as a Trooper Turret, was discovered near the fire's origin point. Court documents describe it as a cluster of Roman candles capable of firing 240 shots in approximately 46 seconds.

Yakimov faces charges including first-degree manslaughter, first-degree arson, first-degree malicious mischief, and six counts of third-degree assault. His bail has been set at $1 million, with his arraignment scheduled for September 17.

Douglas County Sheriff Tyler Caille stated earlier this month that arrest warrants were being sought for five other individuals, all over the age of 18, who are considered complicit in the incident. "This is complete recklessness that led to billions of dollars of loss, loss of Mr. Lister’s life and, unfortunately, everybody involved in that is going to have to pay those consequences," Caille said.