Watsonville Park Playground Burned Down, Arson Suspected

WATSONVILLE, CA — The Watsonville Police Department has launched an arson investigation after a playground at Muzzio Park was burned down Tuesday morning. Officers were patrolling the area of West Front Street shortly after midnight when they came across the fully engulfed playground, according to the WPD.

“There was no one around; no suspects. We’re hoping that there are some witnesses that come forward that can help us solve this case," said Watsonville Police Sergeant Mish Radich.

A group of WPD detectives spent Wednesday morning canvassing the area and going door-to-door in hopes of finding information to help solve the case, the WPD continued.

Sgt. Radich said he strongly believes the department is dealing with an arson investigation because “there was some type of wood piled up underneath the structure as it was burning.”

At this time, detectives do not have any leads and are asking community members to come forward if they have information regarding case number 19W-02728.

“This park is well attended in the afternoons, definitely on the weekends, and it’s just sad to see it burned up like this for no reason,” Sgt. Radich said.

The City of Watsonville estimates that it will cost between $50,000 and $60,000 to replace the playground.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Gustavo Zamora at (831) 768-3355.