New Berlin man arrested after police say he set fire to playground with Molotov cocktails
NEW BERLIN, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A 19-year-old New Berlin man was arrested Friday, in connection to an arson investigation at Biwer Park.
Police say Braddock Sherwood is facing felony charges of arson and damage to property after he used Molotov cocktails to set playground equipment on fire.
According to the criminal complaint, when the fire got too large, Sherwood was seen trying to put it out with a bucket of water. Sherwood initially denied setting the fire but later told police he didn't think the fire would grow.
Prosecutors say Sherwood told investigators he planned on posting videos of the fire to social media.
The hustle and bustle of a neighborhood park usually marks the start of summer. At Biwer Park, it’s quiet as yellow police tape surrounds the playground.
"I use it a lot. I come here probably at least three times a week," said Finley Schnell, a parkgoer.
"We have grandkids, we bring them up here all the time. All the neighbors bring their kids here," said Mark Filter. "I was shocked. I was shocked when I looked at it, I was like, who'd do this, why?”
New Berlin police responded to the park around 4:40 a.m., according to the police department, after neighbors called to say the park was on fire, with witnesses reporting a man with a gas can. Police say the 19-year-old man started the fire using Molotov cocktails, targeting the merry-go-round and basketball court.
"It's just sad to think they would do that just to ruin the community," said Schnell.
The merry-go-round was a total loss.
"A lot of people that like to do the merry-go-round and stuff, it’s going to be a while before they can do it again," said Henley Schnell, a parkgoer.
A short time later, police arrested Sherwood. People in the community say it’s a disappointing start to the summer.
"Find something better to do with your time. I mean, instead of coming in and damaging some great property," said Filter.
Sherwood is being held on a $15,000 bond and is due back in court July 1 for a preliminary hearing.
