Early Monday morning, a fire broke out at Wiggums Hollow Park, damaging the newly built playground that has been a beacon of joy in the Delta Neighborhood since it opened last summer. Everett Fire Department responded to the site after receiving multiple 911 calls around 9:30 a.m., which reported black smoke visible from blocks away and playground equipment caught in flames.
The blaze, which consumed the main play structure, was promptly extinguished by firefighters who arrived shortly after the calls. In a statement obtained by the City of Everett, Mayor Cassie Franklin expressed her gratitude towards the fire department for their rapid response and lamented the incident, saying, "It's heartbreaking to see that the beautiful new playground at Wiggums Hollow Park was seriously damaged by a fire this morning." Franklin acknowledged how the community played a pivotal role in shaping this playground, emphasizing its importance as a site of joy for local families. There were no injuries caused by this incident.
Following the fire, the playground has been closed until further notice, as investigations by the Everett Fire Marshal’s Office and Everett Police Department continue. As it stands, authorities have found no connection between this fire and other recent incidents. The community seeks answers and remains hopeful that the playground will soon be restored to its former state, as a hub for uplifting the spirits of the neighborhood's children and parents alike.
Residents looking for alternative play areas in the meantime are directed to visit the city's parks page for locations. Officials have appealed to the public for any information that could assist in the investigation, urging individuals to reach out to the Everett Fire Marshal's Office or the Everett Police tip line. The respective contacts are listed on the city’s official announcement regarding the fire. According to the same announcement, anyone with details pertaining to the incident should not hesitate to get in touch with the authorities. The loss of a space that brought families together underlines the need for vigilance and community solidarity.
