Illegal fireworks are suspected of causing significant roof damage to the Nevada Youth Sports Center in Las Vegas, prompting the facility to close for an unspecified amount of time while the facility is repaired.
According to 8 News Now, fire crews responded to the NYS in the early morning hours of July 5. The building was on fire, specifically the roof. Photos taken after the blaze was subdued show gaping holes in the roof, ash and debris fallen across the gymnasium floor, and pieces of building material strewn about.
The fire is estimated to have caused $250,000 in damages.
“On the early morning of Sunday, July 5, the NYS Center experienced a catastrophic fire that has impacted our facility and programming,” a statement from NYS read. “As a result, the NYS Center will be closed through at least Friday, July 10. We will share additional updates as more information becomes available regarding the investigation, facility repairs, and reopening timeline.”
The Clark County Fire Department suspects illegal fireworks are the cause of the fire as residents nearby describe fireworks being set off all night, “like bombs.”
“I know the chance of finding out who set these off is extremely slim, but if they were to find them, they should be completely liable for all the damage,” said Wave Aspinwall, who lives near NYS.
The NYS is a multisport training facility that serves thousands of families. It hosts volleyball, basketball, futsal and cheerleading tournaments, and serves as the host site for local youth clubs, elite teams, and adult recreation leagues.
“For those with court and class reservations scheduled between now and July 10, a full refund will be issued automatically. All reservations and bookings beyond July 10 will be evaluated as we learn more in the coming days and gain a better understanding of the extent of the damage and recovery timeline,” their statement read. “We are incredibly thankful that no one was injured. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the first responders who acted quickly and professionally during this emergency.”
