RivCo Officials Send Warning To Culprits Shooting At 'Explosive Targets'

RIVERSIDE (CBSLA.com) — Riverside County officials joined Thursday to send a serious message to culprits who use "exploding targets" for shooting practice –stop now or be prosecuted.

Officials said people have been shooting at compounds that create a dangerous, and even deadly, blast in remote areas of the county.

The detonations have started wildfires, including a 364-acre blaze in Banning two weeks ago.

Chief John Hawkins from CAL FIRE said the suspects will be jailed.

"This is a no tolerance thing in Riverside County," he said.

KCAL9's Greg Mills said it's easy to get elements to create the explosives at gun shows and the Internet even though it's illegal to use the substances for target practice without permits.

"The way we look at it...it's a very dangerous situation and we will prosecute people that use this product," said John Hall from the Riverside County DA's Office.

Authorities are also concerned about people who transport mixed elements to and from the shooting range.

If they get into an accident, the car has the potential to explode.