Police arrest second teen after playground fire near 37th and Meinecke

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Updated: 5:17 p.m. on September 3, 2019

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A second teenager is arrested for torching a local playground. 

One day after a 14-year-old boy was taken into custody, Milwaukee Police announced they're also holding a 17-year-old. 

Police think both teens set the playground on fire, destroying a slide and other equipment. Nearby residents say there aren't many parks in the neighborhood and are disappointed at the senseless act. 

"You messed it up for everybody else that can't take their kids anywhere else like, fortunately, I can take my kids to another park but what about the others that can't," a neighbor said. 

CBS 58 reached out to the City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works to see if and when it plans on making repairs. 

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Updated 11:05 a.m. on September 2, 2019

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee Police say a 14-year-old boy has been taken into custody in connection to the fire set at Butterfly Park.

According to police, the suspects used flammable materials to set several items, including playground equipment, on fire. The investigation remains ongoing.

It happened around 1:25 p.m. on Sunday afternoon. Cellphone video shows the flames as it engulfs the playground set. 

“The whole park looked like an inferno," said Antron Burdine, neighbor.

Firefighters believe it started on or near the slide. 

Monday afternoon, there was an argument between teens and neighbors that ended with police putting a teen in the back of their car but police have not confirmed if it's connected to the case.

Neighbors say there are only a few parks for the kids to play in. 

"There's not too much for the kids anyway it’s the last thing they got over here that’s what really got me upset," said Burdine.

CBS 58 reached out to the City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works to see if and when it plans on making repairs. 

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MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee Police Department is searching for suspects who intentionally set fires at Butterfly Park, located near 37th and Meinecke.

According to police, the suspects used flammable materials to set several items, including playground equipment, on fire.

It happened around 1:25 p.m. on Sunday.

The investigation remains ongoing.

There is currently no description of suspects available.

Stay with CBS 58 News for more information on this developing story. 

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