08/07/2025
Update on Arson at Bomberger Park Playground
Crime Stoppers: the incident qualifies for the Miami Valley Crime Stoppers program. Anyone providing information leading to an arrest can receive a $2500 reward. Please share this fact widely - the inspector said that often there are people who know something from a conversation or message or observation, but don't want to get involved. The reward is very motivating to get such folks to speak up. Reporters can remain anonymous, and the cash payout is very fast once an arrest is made. More information here: http://www.miamivalleycrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=400&
🚒 Arson investigation: the arson investigator spoke with St.Anne’s Hill representatives this morning. The surrounding businesses have been very helpful at providing video. However, the location of the park makes it difficult to make out anything very clearly in the dark. It is not highly likely that anyone will be found, but they do intend to fully investigate all possible leads. The value of the structure makes the act a felony, and there is a 20 year statute of limitations on it.
🏙️ City planning: many people have asked about insurance on the equipment. While the parks are insured, the deductible is more than the value of the lost equipment. Therefore there are no immediately available funds to replace the equipment, and the budget is already set for this year. However, the grants manager is looking into faster options than just the normal budget cycle. They encourage us to continue raising money privately for two reasons- one, of course to offset the amount needed, and two, to score higher on grant applications due to the presence of community match. Overall the city has been extremely supportive. The mayor phoned me on Tuesday morning to express his disappointment and commitment to finding a resolution. Also, the expedient demolition of damaged equipment exceeded all expectations. In other communities that can take months, so we are very lucky that they prioritized this to such a degree.
Keep on sharing ideas, talents, and the fundraising link http://bit.ly/SAH_REBUILD! As awful as this was, the community response has been uplifting.
HELP US BUILD BACK BETTERIn the early morning hours of Sunday, August 3, the playground equipment at Bomberger Park, located on E 5th St. just east of Keowee St,was bu...
