Authorities in Cleveland are conducting a thorough investigation following a suspected arson attack at East Tech High School, which led to the moving of the homecoming dance to an alternative venue. The Cleveland Fire Department was called to the school on East 55th Street last Saturday morning. According to Cleveland19, the fire crews responded just after 5:45 a.m. and quickly extinguished two fires set in the gymnasium, including one under one of the basketball hoops.
The estimated damage from the fires is around $20,000, and no injuries have been reported. The Cleveland Fire Department suspects the fires were intentional, but no suspect has been identified. WKYC shared a statement by Ward 5 councilman Richard Starr expressing deep sorrow and anger over the incident at his alma mater. Starr implored the community to report any knowledge regarding the individual who shattered a window and ignited the gymnasium.
In response to the incident, the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) is cooperating with the fire and police departments. A spokesperson for CMSD told Cleveland19 that security footage showed an individual breaking into the building and causing significant damage. Although it is not confirmed if a suspect is a student, the district has taken measures to ensure the security of its students and faculty.
Cleveland's Crime Stoppers of Cuyahoga County is now offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to an arrest in the arson case, as reported by News 5 Cleveland. "It’s extremely disheartening, it’s disheartening that somebody felt that strongly to enter a building and cause damage," said Karen Thompson, Chief of District Operations at CMSD. The search for the perpetrator continues, with the community on high alert and the authorities requesting any information to assist with the case.
