From Horror to Hope: A Quick Response to Arson

At CRT, we unfortunately we know that arson contributes greatly to fires. The Obenchain and Almeda conflagrations are proof positive of that. Rough estimates show about 8% of wildfires are caused by arson, but it can hit close to home, like along the Greenway in Medford. Whether because of mental issues or substance abuse, it’s crippling in our communities.

In the last several days, Medford was struck by arson leading to a tragedy. Fortunately, the worst brought out the best.

Four days after an early morning fire destroyed part of the Olsrud Family Community Playground at Bear Creek Park in Medford, local residents were focused Monday on recovery. Rather than think about the fire, city officials and community members agreed they would focus on the energy that went into construction of the city’s largest play space and how to put back what was lost.

There is, however, a lot to think about. The Olsrud playground not only helped traumatized and disabled children and emphasized diversity. Couple that with the fact that arson is still traumatizing and this was in the heart of Medford. Then add the fact that the Olsruds were long time property owners (Sherm’s Thunderbird) which focused on community outreach, including beef from our 4-H and FFF…helping farmers and local growers.

That added to the magnitude of the loss. Here’s what happened: Fire crews were dispatched at 1:01 a.m. Thursday when passersby noticed the play area at the park engulfed in flames. Fire crews were on the scene putting out flames within minutes, and Medford police looked for possible suspects. 

Witnesses later reported seeing an individual using a butane torch at the play area, but no arrests have been made.Medford resident Al Densmore, a former Medford mayor and former three-term state representative, stopped by the park during cleanup Monday and offered his perspective. Densmore helped put together the play area in 2018. The playground was the result of a community-focused plan.

.Densmore said news of the fire was particularly heartbreaking after a more than yearlong process that involved some 1,100 volunteers and 6,400 donated hours to build the park, as well as donated materials and a slew of other community contributions.

The fire was a disaster. For example, the space for ages 2-5, was a total loss. 

It is easy to think, what kind of person would burn a child’s playground? It’s wrong on so many levels. But, as promised, there is hope among the chaos. Densmore gave shout outs  to community members who had turned out to help with a range of tasks, from recharging batteries for power tools and creating artwork in various areas to actual construction.

And others donated time and supplies. For example, Western States Environmental of Medford was on site early Monday to begin cleanup. Business owner Kerry Chestnut donated the $20,000 cost of cleaning up the site. Arson is a major hazard that has a debilitating effect on the WUI, rural areas, and, as we have seen, even the jewel of a city park. But we do what we always do: With speed, alacrity,  and support, rolled-up sleeves and comfort.

At CRT we are proud to say we bring that to the table as well.