Juveniles arrested for firing flare guns off Green Bridge, setting yacht on fire

Jul 15

July 15, 2025

Case #:2025-005138

Today, Bradenton Police detectives arrested three juveniles aged 11 to 14 in connection with Monday's fire at the Twin Dolphin Marina, 1000 1st Ave W.

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 of 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
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.

Thanks to the network of cameras along Bradenton's Riverwalk, BPD was able to review video and begin the search for suspects within minutes of Monday's fire at the Twin Dolphin Marina. Three juveniles were arrested within 24 hours of the crime.