Student sets fire in Baton Rouge elementary school bathroom, officials say
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — A student is believed to have intentionally set a fire in the boy's bathroom at an elementary school in Baton Rouge on Friday. Feb. 7.
The St. George Fire Department responded to a fire at Shenandoah Elementary School on Appomattox Avenue around 8:44 a.m.
When firefighters arrived, they found no visible smoke or flames from the outside. The school principal directed them to the source of the fire in a boys' bathroom, where flames were visible. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire within minutes, preventing further damage. SGFD said the bathroom sustained moderate damage, but no injuries were reported.
The fire department said school staff efficiently carried out a fire escape plan, ensuring the safety of students and faculty.
SGFD said an investigator determined that the fire was intentionally set by a student. Due to the student's age, they were released to their parents. The fire department said that there was no further threat to safety.
Fire investigators and school staff gave resources to the parents, including information on the department's Youth Firesetter Program, which educates children on fire safety and prevention.
SGFD encourages parents and guardians to discuss fire safety with their children and use educational resources to prevent similar incidents.
No further information was available.
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