Fire At Mallards Duck Pond Under Investigation
Madison, WI
The original news release has been updated to include a picture of a unique LED camping lantern authorities recovered near the scene that may belong to the suspect(s). Investigators are asking for the public’s help in identifying who might have owned or recently purchased the lantern as well as any other information related to events leading up to or immediately after the fire that is estimated to have caused more than $150,000 in damages.
ATF protects the public from crimes involving firearms, explosives, arson, and the diversion of alcohol and tobacco products; regulates lawful commerce in firearms and explosives; and provides worldwide support to law enforcement, public safety, and industry partners. More information about ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov.
--posted by PIO Cynthia Schuster
4:31 p.m. Thursday, October 24, 2019
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The fire is being actively investigated as an arson. The Madison Fire Department is assisted by the Madison Police Department, ATF, and DCI in its investigation. The MFD wishes to thank Madison Mallards and City of Madison Parks Division for being very cooperative and accommodating during this investigation.
If anyone has information regarding this investigation, please contact the Madison Fire Department's Fire Investigation Division at (608) 266-4488. Individuals can also submit a tip to Madison Area Crime Stoppers at (608) 266-6014, or on the web at P3Tips.com. Individuals contacting Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Damages are estimated at $150,000.
--PIO Cynthia Schuster
Fire investigators are working overnight to attempt to determine the cause of a significant fire at the Madison Mallards Duck Pond.
Firefighters were dispatched at 9:51 p.m. after multiple passersby reported the fire to Dane County 911 Public Safety Communications. Engine Company 10 responded from their fire station just across the street from the ballpark, and the fire was immediately apparent as they pulled onto Northport Drive.
The building, which housed the Mallards Pro Shop, was fully engulfed as crews entered the property and prepared for a defensive fire attack. Firefighters put forth an aggressive fire fight and had the fire knocked down within a few moments; however, flare-ups were persistent as some interior contents continued to burn. The building suffered significant damage, including roof collapse. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.
As of this time, Engine 10 remains on scene to continue monitoring for hot spots and potential rekindling. Fire investigators are also on scene. The fire is being investigated as potentially suspicious in nature.
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