Bonfire tradition leaves three boys hurt

NEPHI, Utah, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- A fire official in Juab County, Utah, says three male students were injured during a traditional bonfire organized by Juab High School students.

Juab County Fire Marshal Brad Ostler said one of the boys hurt during last week's bonfire suffered third-degree burns to his body, while the other two victims suffered both second- and third-degree burns, The Salt Lake Tribune said Thursday.

Juab High Principal Rick Robins said the two boys who suffered lesser burns have since resumed classes, while the condition of the third victim was not reported.

"We're very hopeful for their recovery. It definitely affected our school," Robins said.

Meanwhile, Ostler said students at the school want to maintain the tradition despite the recent accident.

While student organizers did obtain the proper permits for last week's bonfire, Nephi, Utah,City Police Chief Mike Morgan said students likely used too much gasoline while preparing for the traditional fire.

The Tribune said firefighters and police officers were on hand at the vacant lot in Nephi for the Sept. 9 event along with as many as 200 students.