Hollister Police are hoping that witnesses will come forward with information about the suspect or suspects who set fire to the playground equipment at Calaveras School on Friday night, Jan. 9.
At about 11 p.m. Friday, Hollister firefighters and Hollister Police responded to reports of a fire at the Buena Vista Road school.
Police arrived to find the playground area fully engulfed in flames. Hollister firefighters quickly extinguished the flames but the playground equipment was a total loss. Witnesses reported at least two individuals in the area just before the fire started. The police department is asking if anyone remembers seeing someone there or has information on who might have set the fire, to call and assist in the investigation.
Hollister Mayor Ignacio Velazquez posted his reaction to the fire on Facebook:" With all the progress we've been making to improve our parks this is a $100,000 setback by a group of individuals that could care less about our schools or city. We need your help with any tips that you can provide so that we can find the people responsible for the fire. Unfortunately it's our kids that attend Calaveras that are paying the highest price for this nonsense. Thank you Hollister School District workers for coming in right away to remove the burned up debris."
Anyone having information on this case is asked to call the School Resource Officer Michael Paddy at 636-4330 ext. 150. Persons wishing to remain anonymous can call the WeTip Hotline at 800-87-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.