OKC Fire: Second Arson Fire Reported At Vacant SW OKC School

The Oklahoma City Fire Department responded Saturday morning to the second arson at a vacant school in the last month and a half.

Firefighters said smoke was seen around all of the Columbus Elementary School building just after 4 a.m. and a fire was found on the second floor. It was the same scene they encountered around 2 a.m. on July 12.

7/12/2015 Authorities Investigating 'Suspicious' Fire At Abandoned SW OKC School

Fires at vacant facilities can be especially dangerous for crews to traverse, according to Oklahoma City Fire Dept. District Chief Benny Fulkerson.

“When a fire is in an abandoned structure it can be even more dangerous for our firefighters because these are structures that are not well-maintained. They may have holes in the floors, they may have stairwells that are compromised and may collapse easier under fire conditions,” he said.

A reward is now offered for anyone with information that leads to an arrest of the person responsible for these incidents. You’re urged to call the Arson Hotline at 405-23ARSON.

The Oklahoma City Public Schools district ended its use of the school building in 2014.

6/3/2014 Teachers And Students Say Farewell To Columbus Elementary

District officials said Saturday they are currently exploring options for the building following the fires.