Teen Suspected in Minnesota Playground Arson

Police in Sartell, Minn., say a 13-year-old boy is suspected of starting a fire that destroyed playground equipment valued at about $100,000.

Deputy Police Chief Dale Struffert says the boy is the lone suspect. He was released to his parents.

Struffert told the St. Cloud Times a lighter was used to start the fire.

The fire was reported July 5 at Pine Meadow Elementary School.

Superintendent Joe Hill says school officials were meeting to determine whether insurance would help pay to replace the equipment.

The playground is one of two at the elementary school. Hill says the goal is to have the new playground ready when school opens in September.

Information from: St. Cloud Times