Three boys charged in tot lot arson

SAYREVILLE — Three juveniles have been arrested and charged with setting fire to the borough tot lot earlier this year.

The three males, who range in age from 15 to 16, have been charged with arson, criminal mischief and failure to report a fire.

The boys, who are all residents of the borough, were arrested on Thursday and Friday, Oct. 5 and 6, after police from the detective and juvenile aid bureaus received information from a concerned resident about the case.

Police have been investigating the fire for some time now.

Earlier this year, police and firefighters were called to the Main Street park around 3 a.m. after receiving a report of fire at the play area.

The fire severely damaged the newly renovated playground.

In an effort to find the perpetrators, borough officials, and later police, posted reward money for the capture of the suspects.

Police believe that the juveniles accidentally set fire to the play area and fled after it became out of control.

Borough officials have since begun procedures to restore the playground.

All three boys were released into their parents’ custody.

The boys still face criminal charges, which will be heard at Middlesex County Family Court, New Brunswick.