Cops: Park Fires May Have Been Intentionally Set

Firefighters throughout north Pinellas County found themselves quite busy Sunday when not one, but two blazes broke out at Forest Run Park.

Now, investigators from the Clearwater Police Department and Clearwater Fire & Rescue say at least one of those fires may have been intentionally set.

The first fire at the park broke out around 3 p.m.

Firefighters from Clearwater were joined by crews from Safety Harbor, Palm Harbor, Largo and Oldsmar to put out the blaze and related hotspots, the Clearwater Police Department noted in an email to media. With residential areas nearby, there was a need to work quickly, the department stated.

The second fire broke out around 8:42 p.m. at the park, which is near Landmark Drive and Curlew Road. Crews had to return to the park to put out that blaze, as well.

It is currently unclear if both fires were set intentionally, but Clearwater Police are asking anyone with information about the blazes to step forward. They intend to post signs at the park early this week asking for information and are accepting tips from residents at 727-562-4242.

No injuries or evacuations were noted with either fire, but the police department did have to close a nearby road for a time Sunday night.

The initial blaze affected about 2 acres of parkland. It is unclear how extensive the damage is.

Photos courtesy of Clearwater Fire & Rescue

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