Fire And Arson Investigation Concludes Playground Fire Was Intentionally Set; Reward Offered For Information (Photo) - 07/20/26
Vancouver, Wash. – The Vancouver Fire Department, in cooperation with the Vancouver Police Department, has completed its investigation into the fire that destroyed the play structure at Oakbrook Park, located at 3103 NE 99th Ave, on July 20, 2026. Fire Investigators have determined the fire was the result of arson.
Fire crews were dispatched to the park at approximately 1:24 AM on July 20, 2026, after reports of a fire involving the composite play structure. The structure was engulfed upon arrival and was declared a total loss, with approximately $100,000 in damages. No injuries were reported.
Following a thorough fire scene examination, review of evidence, and witness interviews, fire investigators concluded the fire was deliberately set and did not result from accidental or natural causes. The investigation remains open, and the Vancouver Fire-Arson Team is asking anyone with information to come forward.
Reward Offered
Through the Arson Alarm Foundation, a reward of $10,000 is being offered for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for this fire. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fire-Arson Investigation Team @ 360-798-6428 (line open 24/7). Tipsters may remain anonymous.
"Arson is not a victimless crime," said Heidi Scarpelli, Fire Marshal. "This playground served families and children throughout our community, and its loss affects everyone. We're asking neighbors to help us hold whoever is responsible accountable." The Oakbrook play structure will be rebuilt/assessed for replacement with support from the City Parks Department. Updates on restoration plans will be shared as they become available.
Community Fire Safety Tips
As part of this investigation, the Vancouver Fire Department is reminding residents of simple steps everyone can take to help keep neighborhoods and public spaces safe:
- Stay alert and report suspicious activity
- Note and report any unattended fires, unusual burning smells, or people loitering near parks, sheds, or vacant structures after hours.
- If you see something that looks like it could start a fire — piled debris, discarded fireworks, open flames near dry brush — report it before it becomes an emergency.
- Call 911 immediately for any active fire, no matter how small it appears.
- Protect shared community spaces
- Encourage neighbors to walk or drive by local parks and playgrounds periodically, especially in the evening.
- Report vandalism or damage to playground equipment promptly so it can be addressed before it escalates.
- Support neighborhood watch or community patrol programs where available.
- Reduce fire risk around your home and neighborhood
- Keep dry leaves, mulch, and debris cleared away from structures, fences, and play equipment.
- Store flammable materials (gasoline, propane, aerosols) away from high-traffic or public areas.
- Properly extinguish and dispose of cigarettes, charcoal, and fire pit embers — never leave them unattended.
- Teach children fire safety
- Talk with kids about the dangers of playing with matches, lighters, or fireworks, and keep these items out of reach.
- Teach children to tell a trusted adult immediately if they see a fire, matches, or lighters at a park or in the neighborhood.
