2 teens charged for setting fire to wooded area near Garfield Park

Altoona, PA (WJAC) — Altoona police say two teens are facing arson charges after reportedly setting fire to a wooded area near Garfield Park Tuesday afternoon.

Police say crews were dispatched to the 1100 block of 25th Street after a State Parole agent witnessed the two teens start the fire and flee the scene.

Investigators say the fire "spread rapidly" and burned an area the approximate size of a football field.

Police say due to the quick response of the Altoona Fire Department, the fire was able to be contained and did not damage any nearby homes or the park itself.

Police say a 17-year-old and 15-year-old male are in custody.

Authorities say no injuries were reported.

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