Video: 'Significant' Dune Fires Break Out In Ocean City

MARYLAND — Officials in Ocean City are asking for the public's help in finding the individuals responsible for several dune fires that broke out over the weekend.

The Ocean City Fire Department said Sunday that preliminary findings indicate illegal fireworks were the likely cause of the dune grass fires that erupted Saturday shortly before 9:30 p.m.

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Video from the scene showed several patches of fire and smoke billowing in the area.

Authorities said the fires "burned a significant area of dune grass along the beach in the area of 116th and 117th Street."

"Dune grass plays a critical role in protecting our coastline from erosion and storm impacts," reads a statement. "We appreciate the community's assistance as this investigation continues."

Anyone who either witnessed the incident or has any information related to the fire is urged to contact David Marquez, an investigator with the department, via email at DMARQUEZ@OCEANCITYMD.GOV.