Slides melted after 'deliberate' fire at Madera playground

MADERA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A fire at a playground in Madera has caused significant damage in what officers say was the second playground fire in the community this week, according to the Madera Police Department.

Investigators say damage to the John W. Wells Youth Center Playground has impacted around a quarter of the equipment on site. Pictures from the scene show a melted slide and fire-damaged stairs and equipment.

The fire follows another fire at Rotary Park playground earlier this week. Investigators believe accelerants were used at both the Rotary Park playground fire and the John W. Wells Youth Center playground fire. Investigators say using accelerants would suggest deliberate and suspicious intent.

The potentially deliberate targeting of children’s playground equipment at our local parks is not just deeply concerning but outright unacceptable.

Anyone who can help identify those responsible is asked to contact Madera Police on (559) 675-4220.