Centralia police arrest 2 juveniles for laptop computer fire. Is social media to blame?
Centralia police arrested two juveniles on suspicion of arson last week, and now they are raising concerns about how social media may have influenced the middle school students.
About 10:20 a.m. May 15, police and the Riverside Fire Authority were dispatched to Centralia Middle School after a report of a fire. They arrived to find a laptop computer partially burned and smoking from its battery compartment, according to a news release..
Police are concerned that the fire may have been the product of a social media “challenge.”
“Preliminary findings suggest the incident may be linked to a disturbing social media trend encouraging young individuals to set electronic devices on fire and share videos of the act online,” the release reads. “These so-called ‘challenges’ promote reckless and dangerous behavior, posing significant risks to public safety, property, and the environment. Such actions can result in serious legal consequences, including criminal charges and long-term impacts on a juvenile’s future.”
Police and fire officials urge families and others to discuss harmful social media trends.
“We are working closely with local schools and community organizations to raise awareness about the risks of these activities and to promote responsible digital citizenship,” the release reads.
This story was originally published May 18, 2025 at 11:49 AM.
