NEWBERG, Ore. – Two Newberg boys suspected of setting small fires in landscaping and garbage dumpsters were taken into custody Wednesday, police said.

“Investigators determined the two boys are responsible for at least three fires set in brush and isolated park areas on the George Fox University campus and adjacent properties owned by Chehalem Park and Recreation District,” said Newberg-Dundee Police Sgt. Tim Weaver.

The boys, ages 13 and 14, allegedly started at least three fires within a few blocks of each other, requiring fire officials to work quickly to keep the several fires from spreading to dry brush and trees.

Fires on the GFU campus were set in the Hess Creek canyon, accessible only by trails and service roads. One other fire was set at the Pool Park, adjacent to the local pool, near the university campus.

Newberg Fire officials said the set fires had great potential for causing considerable damage as the setting locations were in dry brush and trees and adjacent to university facilities.

Both boys were cited for reckless burning and released to their parents.

During the investigation, detectives also learned the two were allegedly involved in several property thefts, some committed at the CPRD public pool. The boys allegedly stole items from other customers' lockers, Weaver said.

Anyone who had property stored in the men’s locker room and believe it may have been stolen during that time should contact Detective Eric Ronning at 503-537-1226.

This investigation continues. The case has been forwarded to the Yamhill County Juvenile Department.