A devastating fire has left the Mount Diablo High School football team in a critical situation just days before their home opener. The $3 million state-of-the-art football field, completed in March, was severely damaged by what appears to be an illegal fireworks incident.

According to local authorities, the fire started around 10:30 pm on Saturday night and wasn’t fully extinguished until early Sunday morning. Surveillance footage reveals what seems to be several individuals, potentially juveniles, setting off fireworks on the field prior to the blaze.

Principal Dr. Markell McCain described the scene as overwhelming, with fire and police departments responding quickly. “When I got here, the whole fire department was here, whole police department was here,” he told local media.

Despite the field being marketed as flame-retardant, the artificial turf suffered extensive damage, creating a massive burn scar across the center of the playing surface. The field is likely unplayable for the remainder of the season, forcing the Red Devils to seek alternative venues.

One potential solution is using the nearby Diablo Valley College football field, which has previously hosted high school games and is located less than three miles away from Mount Diablo High.

The Concord Police Department is actively investigating the incident. Detectives are working to identify those responsible and are asking anyone with information to contact Detective Lee Lawrence at (925) 671-3234 or use the anonymous tip line at (925) 603-5836.

This unexpected setback comes at a crucial time for the team, who were preparing for their first home game against San Rafael’s Terra Linda High School. The incident not only disrupts the team’s season but also represents a significant financial loss for the school district.

As the investigation continues, the community awaits further details about the cause of this destructive fire and the potential consequences for those responsible.