A Florida man’s reckless act at an Orlando soccer match left a child injured and sparked federal charges that could land him in prison.

ICYMI: Florida Man Charged with Orlando Stadium Fire That Left Child Burned

A Florida man’s reckless act at an Orlando soccer match left a child injured and sparked federal charges that could land him in prison. 🌐 #News #OrlandoFL #Florida #Crime

ORLANDO, FL – A soccer match in Orlando turned into a terrifying scene earlier this year when a man allegedly set off flares that ignited a fire, injuring a child and damaging the stadium. Now, federal authorities have indicted Giovanni Isai Ramirez Reyes, 37, for his actions that left many questioning public safety at large events.

Incident Unfolds at Inter&Co Stadium

On February 24, 2024, during a high-energy soccer match at Inter&Co Stadium—home to Orlando City in Major League Soccer and the Orlando Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League—Ramirez Reyes allegedly ignited two flares. Witnesses say the flares, thrown into the crowd, quickly sparked a fire.

The fire injured a child attending the game and caused damage to stadium property. What began as a festive gathering of fans soon became a scene of chaos, leaving spectators in shock as emergency responders rushed to the scene.

Investigation Involves Multiple Agencies

Following the incident, the Orlando Police Department and the Orlando Fire Department launched an investigation. They were joined by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to determine the cause and circumstances behind the fire. Federal authorities took the lead in bringing charges against Ramirez Reyes.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida announced on Thursday that Ramirez Reyes has been indicted for arson involving a building and personal injury.

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Severe Legal Consequences

If convicted, Ramirez Reyes could face a mandatory minimum of seven years in prison, with a maximum sentence of up to 40 years. The serious charge reflects the dangerous nature of his actions, which not only caused physical harm but also jeopardized the safety of thousands in attendance.

Impact on Public Safety and Event Security

The fire at Inter&Co Stadium has reignited concerns about public safety at large events. While authorities handled the incident swiftly, questions remain about how stadiums can better control and prevent dangerous behavior. Organizers may look at stricter security screenings or other preventative measures to ensure the safety of attendees going forward.

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