Two suspects are now in custody for allegedly using a firework to cause an explosion at a home in Mesa, Arizona, last week. The incident occurred on June 13 around 9:30 p.m. near Country Club Drive and Guadalupe Road. According to court documents, 18-year-old Daniel J. Traynor and 19-year-old Eliyzar R. Frias were involved in the crime.
Frias parked his vehicle up the street from the targeted home and waited for neighbors to walk away. Traynor got out of the car, while Frias drove slowly behind him. Traynor then walked into the front yard, ignited a large firework, and threw it into the entryway of Nick Scherr’s home. Scherr, who was watching TV, was caught off guard by the explosion, which shattered a window and caused minor injuries.
After the incident, Traynor and Frias fled the scene. However, police used databases to identify them and their vehicle. During an interview with authorities, Traynor admitted to lighting the firework and throwing it at the home, claiming that another friend had instructed him to do so. Frias, on the other hand, stated that he drove Traynor to the home, aware of what would happen but unaware of the extent of damage it would cause.
Upon searching their vehicle, authorities discovered nine large fireworks. Both suspects now face charges of arson of an occupied structure, aggravated assault, and criminal damage. It’s fortunate that Scherr’s injuries were minor, but the estimated tens of thousands of dollars in damage highlight the seriousness of their actions.