A brush fire that scorched nearly eight acres near Ladera Ranch has caused an estimated $10,000 in property damage, according to official incident records from the Orange County Fire Authority.
The blaze consumed 7.70 acres before firefighters brought it under control, according to the Orange County Fire Authority Incident Information Fact Sheet. The investigation into the fire's origin remains active, with authorities declining to release additional details until the case concludes.
Three minors were interviewed during the investigation, a representative for the Orange County Fire Authority confirmed. The young people involved received stern warnings from fire officials and were mandated to complete fire safety courses as a consequence of their actions.
The incident gained public attention after Jennifer Pedranti, who appears on "The Real Housewives of Orange County," acknowledged on social media that her son participated in starting the fire. Pedranti issued an apology to neighbors affected by the blaze and indicated her son would face consequences for his involvement.
No injuries were reported in connection with the fire, and no arrests were made. Authorities have not disclosed whether the minors or their families will be required to reimburse local agencies for the property damage or firefighting costs associated with the incident.
The Orange County Fire Authority continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding how the fire started. Officials indicated they will provide further information once their review is complete.