Two individuals now face arson charges after allegedly setting fires at an Athens-Clarke County park.
The Athens-Clarke County Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office recently concluded the investigation into a series of fires at Southeast Clarke Park that caused damage to public facilities.
According to the Athens-Clarke County Fire Department, the initial fire occurred overnight on May 19 at the park located at 4440 Lexington Road. The blaze damaged the public restrooms and a nearby dugout at the baseball field. It was discovered the next morning by Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services staff during routine rounds. No 911 calls were made at the time, as the fire had self-extinguished during the night.
In response, authorities monitored the area for two consecutive nights. On the morning of May 22, the suspects allegedly returned to the park and attempted to set another fire. They were identified and arrested at the scene.
Investigators classified both incidents as incendiary after examining burn patterns, reviewing photographic evidence and collecting physical items from the scene, according to authorities.
Two individuals were arrested and charged with arson in the second degree, a felony under Georgia law. Their names have not been released by authorities pending formal arraignment.
The department urges the community to report any suspected arson activity immediately, emphasizing that arson poses a significant risk to both lives and property.
