Authorities in Linden have charged two boys - ages 11 and 13 - with arson and criminal mischief in connection yesterday's fire that damaged the play area at a local park.
According to fire officials, at approximately 4:30 p.m. firefighters received a call for a playground fire on West Curtis.
Upon arrival, crews found the playground equipment and rubber mulch heavily involved in flames.
Linden firefighters called for additional engines to the scene where crews extinguished the blaze in a short period, officials said.
The entire playground area of the park was destroyed, and the cost of the damage is estimated to be well over $80,000.
Two juveniles, ages 11 and 13, were taken into custody after neighbors identified them as being in the park when the fire started.
Complaints for 2nd degree arson and 3rd degree criminal mischief were signed against the juveniles, both of whom are from Linden.
They were ultimately released to their parents pending an appearance in juvenile court.