Brush fires in Central Park believed to be arson

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Firefighters battle several brush fires in Central Park

Firefighters battled a number of brush fires in Central Park Tuesday in what could be the work of an arsonist.

MANHATTAN, New York City (WABC) -- Firefighters battled a number of brush fires in Central Park Tuesday that are believed to be the work of an arsonist.

The first call came in around 1:20 p.m. for report of a fire at Central Park and West 110th Street, in the northernmost corner of the part and about four blocks from Central Park North.

The FDNY responded and found six to eight small areas of brush burning at the location.

Officials said one of the fires was a little bigger than the others, but all have been extinguished.

The fires were in the same general area as a similar but smaller fire Tuesday morning.

Investigators believe the fires were intentionally set, but no arrests have yet been made.

No injuries were reported, and there were no reports of any significant damage.

Videos from the scene showed smoking rising from several wooded areas.

Those who use the park regularly said the fires were unnerving.

"I can't imagine why somebody would set fire in Central Park or any park, I mean that seems dangerous, it's scary, I have no idea why somebody would do something like that," Manhattan resident Anthony Schmertz said.

According to police, suspect is described as a male last seen wearing green pants, a black jacket and a black hooded shirt. Anyone with information is urged to call the NYPD.

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