Series Of Suspicious Fires At Concord Park Investigated: Police

CONCORD, CA — A series of fires at a Concord park are being investigated by the Concord Police Department and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. Since September, nearly a dozen
suspicious fires have been reported around the western edge of Newhall Community Park, 1351 Newhall Parkway, police said Tuesday.

"At this time, investigators believe these fires were intentionally set," Concord police Cpl. David Petty said in a news release. "The fires have been set at various times of the day with the majority being in the late night and early morning."

The affected areas are the grassy fields to the south of Bel Air Drive and Melody Drive, which are directly adjacent to residential neighborhoods.

Con Fire is leading the investigation of the fires, with Concord police assisting in their efforts.

"We want to assure our community that we are searching for the suspect or suspects responsible and we are looking into all possible leads," Petty said. "We ask that our community be vigilant and alert. If you see anything suspicious or a fire, call 9-1-1."

Con Fire and Concord police investigators request anyone with information regarding these incidents to call the Con Fire tip line at 866-50-ARSON, the Concord Police Department Investigations Division at 925-603-5834 or the Concord Police Department confidential tip line at 925-603-5836.