A Somerville fire is under scrutiny as officials enlist the community's aid to uncover details behind the suspicious blazes. In a collective request, Somerville Fire Chief Charles J. Breen Jr, Somerville Police Chief Shumeane Benford, and State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine are appealing to the public for assistance, as per an announcement detailed on the Massachusetts government news portal.
The former Winter Hill Community School, located at 115 Sycamore Street, was the center of attention on May 12 at 8:47 p.m., when responders to the scene found multiple unlinked fires inside the structure. After breaching the perimeter, firefighters extinguished the fires and discovered evidence of vandalism, said Chief Breen on the Massachusetts government website, "This fire had the potential to grow and spread, increasing the danger and risk to responding firefighters."
The investigation—being conducted by the Somerville Police Criminal Investigation Division, Somerville Fire Department, and State Police fire investigators—now pivots to the prevention of further incidents. Chief Benford reinforced the urgency on the Massachusetts government website, "The most important thing right now is to prevent any additional fires that could leave someone injured, or worse." The collaborative probe signifies the serious nature of the fires and the potential consequences they entail.
Authorities have pointed the public towards the Arson Watch Reward Program for those who may have information that could illuminate the situation. The program, managed by the Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association, offers up to $5,000 for tips that can solve, detect, or prevent arson-related crimes. For any tips, the public is encouraged to dial 1-800-682-9229 and potentially aid in averting future tragedies.
