A historic picnic shelter at Lewisville Regional Park was destroyed in an early morning fire on Tuesday, May 12, prompting an active investigation into a suspected arson by local authorities.
Personnel from Clark Cowlitz Fire Rescue (CCFR), Clark County Fire District 3 and Fire District 10 responded and were able to bring the fire under control before it spread further, but the shelter was deemed a complete loss. Deputies with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the structure fire at the Grand Shelter in the park, located at 26411 N.E. Lewisville Highway, just north of Battle Ground proper.
“The fire appears to be suspicious in nature, but no cause has been determined at this time,” CCFR stated in a Facebook post.
The Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office are investigating the blaze as a possible arson. Authorities said no additional details, including information about possible suspects, are being released at this time.
“This is still a very active and ongoing investigation and as of right now, I do not have any further details to share,” Clark County Fire Marshal Donna Goddard stated in an email. “Our team of fire investigators are committed to doing a thorough investigation into the origin and cause of the fire and will share the findings when that process is complete.”
The Sheriff’s Office said deputies are providing additional attention to the area as resources allow, and are encouraging community members to report suspicious behavior.
Lewisville Regional Park reopened to the public on Wednesday, May 13, though the area surrounding the destroyed shelter remains closed. County officials installed fencing and signage around the site and reminded visitors that entering closed areas is prohibited.
The park was closed all day on Tuesday, May 12, while investigators processed the scene and crews conducted preliminary cleanup efforts.
County staff is contacting people who had picnic shelter reservations to provide refunds or options to relocate reservations to other park facilities, a news release by the county stated.
According to Clark County, the Central Picnic Shelter was built between 1936 and 1940 through the Works Progress Administration and was one of the park’s original six structures. Lewisville Regional Park is listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Clark County Heritage Register.
Anyone with information or tips that may assist in the fire investigation is asked to contact the Fire Marshal’s Office by email at firemar@clark.wa.gov or by phone at 564-397-2186.
