Gilbert Moms Unite to Expose Firework-Throwing Teens: ‘These Kids Know That Exact Explosive’

After Jeni Jones’ barn went up in flames, she learned her home was not the first targeted by a group of teens intent on causing damage.

GILBERT, Ariz. — Jeni Jones’ red barn in the backyard of her home in east Gilbert was destroyed by fire on July 3. The fire consumed collectibles, cars, and cherished mementos. Thankfully, her daughters and their friends, who were inside the barn when the fire started, escaped unharmed.

Gilbert Police have arrested two 15-year-old teens, charging them with arson, endangerment, and criminal damage. The teens appeared in juvenile court last week to be advised of their charges. Both have been allowed to stay with their parents during the court process.

The incident has left Jones questioning the role of the teens’ parents. “The parents aren’t going to understand because it hasn’t happened to them, and they won’t unless it does happen to them,” she stated.

In recent weeks, Jones has connected with other Gilbert parents who have had similar experiences. These parents, like Jones, have found their homes targeted by fireworks-wielding teenagers. Among them is Leann Slade, who captured video evidence of a similar incident.

Slade’s home was targeted on November 21, 2023, as a firework was thrown from a truck bed onto her front lawn. “It was shocking to see a mortar-like firework hurled at my home,” Slade remarked.

Although the incident at Slade’s home is not classified as arson, Gilbert police continue to investigate. Slade reached out to Jones upon seeing news of her barn fire, recognizing a disturbing pattern of behavior among the teenagers.

“It’s crucial to highlight the recurring nature of these incidents,” Slade said. “The damage done to the Jones family home was terrible, yet it’s part of a larger issue.”

Jones and Slade believe there are ongoing investigations into the group of teens, primarily freshmen and sophomores in high school. They allege that these investigations go beyond just fireworks incidents.

“We’ve linked the two boys involved in my fire to other crimes,” Jones explained. “This issue is significant in Gilbert, and I refuse to let it be ignored.”

Several parents plan to attend the upcoming Gilbert Town Council meeting to bring further attention to this issue.

The teens charged in the barn fire have hearings scheduled for September 16 and 23, which will determine if they will be tried in adult court. Until then, they remain in juvenile court.