Three fires were ignited in one night at a Central Illinois park in Danville, prompting an investigation by the Danville Police Department to identify those responsible.
It happened last night at Winter Park and now people in the neighborhood are upset by the perceived vandalism.
Currently, the police are examining the site and have determined that an individual or group is accountable for the fires. The park has been temporarily shut down, and damages are already exceeding $1,000.
Orlando Carter and his grandson intended to enjoy a day at Winter Park in Danville on Tuesday morning, but city public works staff redirected them due to the acts of vandalism.
“He told me it was closed and told me what happened and stuff and everything. And I just told him ‘Man that’s really sad,’ and, you know, and I’m quite sure other parents going to bring their kids today to when they going to find out the same thing,” Carter said.
Carter said he uses the park twice a week keeping his grandson busy.
AMBUCS President elect Patrick Halloran said this wasn’t the news he wanted to wake up to hearing about one of their organizations parks.
“It’s the beginning of our summer season. We’re expecting a lot of folks, especially children with developmental and physical disabilities, to enjoy this park. So anything that happens to it that detracts from folks ability to be able to enjoy it makes my heart very sad,” Halloran said.
The Danville Police Department said calls about a fire came in around 10 p.m. on Monday.
“There were some trash cans that were burned, and then when we opened up the bathrooms to see what was going on, there were just some sinks that were damaged using some of the things that were on fire in the bathrooms,” Halloran said.
Halloran said now their goal is finding a way to start adding cameras to the park.
“Hopefully with some cameras there, it could serve as a deterrent for folks that are looking to take an opportunity of a situation and cause some trouble,” Halloran said.
WCIA reached out to Danville’s Mayor who said this year they’re looking to add a camera budget so they can put them in all parks. The Danville Police Department said they’re still looking for suspects. If you have any information you’re asked to reach out at 217-431-2245.
