3 kids accused of setting off boat fire that briefly shut down portion of Bradenton Riverwalk  

At 1:31 p.m. on July 14, 2025, a 911 caller reported that a boat was on fire at the marina, adding that moments before the fire, he saw several juveniles fire something off the Green Bridge. A second 911 caller also reported witnessing the event. The Bradenton Fire Department responded and quickly put out the blaze, which caused significant damage to the 45-foot yacht.

Using the descriptions provided by witnesses, detectives quickly obtained CCTV video from City of Bradenton cameras located on the Riverwalk. The video appeared to show three juveniles with flare guns shortly before and after the fire started. The juveniles were later positively identified and questioned with their parents’ cooperation.

Michael Walker, 14, faces the following charges: First-degree arson; possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony; possession of a firearm by a minor under 18; and discharging a firearm in public or on residential property.

The 11- and 12-year-olds each are charged with possession of a firearm by a minor and discharging a firearm in public or on residential property. The juveniles were transported to the Manatee Juvenile Detention Center.