Bay Area/ Oakland

San Francisco Philanthropist Steps Up to Bat for San Pablo Baseball League After Devastating Arson Attack

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Published on September 18, 2024
San Francisco Philanthropist Steps Up to Bat for San Pablo Baseball League After Devastating Arson AttackSource: San Pablo Police Department

The San Pablo Baseball Association is bouncing back after a recent arson destroyed their storage container, leaving young players without essential equipment. The league is quickly recovering and preparing for its next game thanks to local supporters and a generous donation from a San Francisco philanthropist.

League president Andre Williams told KTVU that the fire caused an estimated $100,000 in losses, destroying uniforms, bats, helmets, and more. Despite the setback, Williams remains hopeful, stating, "We're going to keep going. I'm going to put it in God's hands."

KRON4 reported that police arrested 30-year-old Ulysses Sanchez, a local unhoused man, in connection with the fire. Sanchez faces charges of arson, burglary, and possession of stolen property. He was found with stolen items and admitted to his intentions.

In response, the league set up a GoFundMe page, raising $7,160 by Wednesday morning. While this is only a fraction of what is needed, the league remains transparent about its efforts, sharing updates on the San Pablo Baseball Association page and calling for community support. In a heartfelt post, they wrote, "Pray for our babies please. We’re totally caught off guard by this tragic event."