A 15-year-old boy was charged and placed in an educational center on August 13, 2026, for a wildfire near Bordeaux airport in Merignac that killed two firefighters on July 21, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. Authorities said the fire started when the teenager discarded a cigarette butt onto dry grass near the airport [1, 2, 3].
The boy’s 22-year-old brother was also arrested initially but later released after the teenager accepted full responsibility [2, 3]. The Bordeaux prosecutor’s office opened an investigation into the cause and circumstances of the blaze [1, 2, 3].
Two firefighters died on July 21 after their emergency vehicle was trapped by flames while battling the fire near the airport [1, 2, 3]. The fire burned approximately 1,100 hectares, forcing evacuation of 525 residents from the village of Luglon in the Landes region [1]. Efforts to contain the blaze involved 500 firefighters and six aircraft, but fire officials said the situation remained severe. Landes region official Claveler stated, "情况十分严峻，火势仍在蔓延。" (The situation is dire, and the fire is still spreading) [1].
Since July 2026, France has experienced a surge in wildfires worsened by ongoing heatwaves, with more than 474 people arrested for suspected arson or negligence, including 183 minors [1].
The investigation continues amid continued firefighting efforts near Bordeaux. As of August 13, firefighters and officials remain engaged to control the fire and assess further risks [1].
