I-Team: Arsonist sets fire inside East Tech High School

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CLEVELAND (WJW) — The FOX 8 I-Team has learned an arsonist set a fire inside Cleveland’s East Tech High School.

Firefighters responded to an alarm at the school at 5:47 a.m. on Saturday, according to Cleveland Division of Fire Lt. Mike Norman.

When they arrived on scene, they did not hear an alarm, but saw smoke inside the gymnasium, Norman said. They found the fire on a padded wall and the hardwood floor under a basketball hoop. There was another small fire on a tile floor by the entrance.

“Both fires were quickly extinguished,” Norman said. “Both fires are under investigation and believed to be intentionally set.”

Fire investigators are working with city and school police officers to collect evidence.

No firefighters were injured.

The damage is estimated at $20,000.

Councilman Richard Starr said he received a call early Saturday morning about the incident.

He said someone kicked in a front glass window at the school, then set a fire in the gym.

The councilman told us the fire did damage to the floor in the gym and a wall.

He also said the suspect wore a mask concealing his identity, but also left a gas can. Scientific evidence on the can could provide clues.

FOX 8 News reached out to the fire department and Cleveland police multiple times, but we have not received any details on the incident from them.

Starr issued a statement:

This morning, I received a concerning call from Dr. Temujin Taylor and Chief Dodson of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District regarding a distressing incident of arson that occurred at East Technical High School. It is truly disheartening to learn that someone would break into our beloved school to intentionally set a fire. As an alumnus of East Tech, I feel a deep sense of sorrow and anger over this troubling behavior, which has tarnished the reputation of a place that holds so much significance for many of us.

Today was supposed to be a joyous occasion, as East Tech students were set to celebrate their ‘Homecoming.’ This event, which embodies school spirit and community pride, has now been overshadowed by the reckless actions of an individual who clearly lacks respect for our educational institutions. Such behavior is not only unacceptable, but it also disrupts the experiences of current students who look forward to these traditions.

If anyone has any knowledge about the person who shattered a window and ignited a fire in the gymnasium, I urge you to immediately contact the police and report this individual. We must hold those responsible for such acts of violence accountable, and that law enforcement can impose the highest possible penalties.

I would like to extend my gratitude to the Cleveland Metropolitan School District leadership and Dr. Taylor for their prompt communication regarding this grave incident. It is crucial that we come together as a community to ensure the safety and well-being of our schools and students. This type of violence should never be tolerated or accepted in our society.

Cleveland city councilman Richard Starr

The school district’s homecoming dance was scheduled for Saturday at the high school.

A Cleveland Metropolitan School District spokesperson in a Saturday statement said the district is working with the Cleveland fire and police departments on the investigation.

Our security cameras captured footage of an individual breaking into the building by kicking in the glass and causing significant damage to the gym with the use of a gasoline can and lighter fluid. At this time, it is not confirmed whether the suspect is a current CMSD student.

As a precautionary measure, and to ensure the safety of our students and staff, tonight’s homecoming dance has been moved to a different location while the investigation remains ongoing. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Candice Grose, Cleveland Metropolitan School District spokesperson

Grose said the school is expected to be open on Monday, but the gymnasium will be secured for the ongoing investigation.

We will update this story as we learn more.

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Ed Gallek

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