‘Lost everything’: Blaze caused by fireworks destroys Layton home; 3 arrested

LAYTON, Utah ( ABC4 ) — A fire that destroyed a Layton home over the weekend was caused by people lighting fireworks nearby, investigators say.

Layton City Fire Battalion Chief Jason Cook said that three people were taken into custody early Sunday morning. He said they admitted to lighting fireworks near the Kay’s Creek Trailhead, sparking a blaze in the brush that spread to the home.

Kimberly Mulholland, a neighbor, woke up to an explosion around 1:30 a.m. She said she repeatedly opened and closed her curtains, unable to believe what she was seeing.

“The whole home was engulfed in flames,” she said.

Other neighbors rushed to the burning home, looking for the woman and two children who lived there. However, no one was inside. Mulholland confirmed this by calling the homeowner, who said she and her kids were out of town.

“I Facetimed her as we watched her home burn down,” Mulholland said. “It was the hardest phone call I’ve ever made.”

Video from Mulholland’s security system captured the fire. The home can be seen burning before a large explosion fills the screen. After, flaming debris can be seen swirling in the air.

In the days since the fire, Mulholland and other neighbors quickly worked to start a fundraiser and gather basic supplies for the homeowner, who is currently sorting out how to move forward. One of the efforts allows people to sign up to donate items like furniture, kitchenware and hygiene products.

“This family lost everything,” said Daniela Harding, one of the organizers. “They need everything from toiletries up to the big items, and we want to be part of making that happen.”

Nancy Sylvester, another of the organizers, said the homeowner, a single mother, is an anchor in the local community, adding that her two children, ages 10 and 12, are often seen playing in the neighborhood. She said that insurance is not covering all of the family’s losses.

“It’s just a tragedy,” Sylvester said. “Good people who just need some help.”

Cook, the fire chief, said the three arrested individuals will be facing charges, but he wasn’t able to give more details.

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