Playground at Hollister school destroyed, Police asking for public’s help

Hollister Police are investigating a fire that destroyed playground equipment at Calaveras Elementary School Friday night.

NewsChannel 5 said it was shock and disappointment from teachers, parents and mostly the students at Calaveras Elementary as they got back to school Monday.

“I feel sad because there’s no where we can play,” said 8-year-old Zaniah.

Investigators say the damage was done deliberately.

“Oh it’s arson,” said Chief David Westrick Monday.

Friday night witnesses saw a group of people hanging out at the playground before the fire was reported, “What it shows is some people are really selfish and they don’t care about other community members and utilization of other stuff,” said Westrick.

As police work to identify suspects, parents and staff work to answers questions from kids.

“We had to answer a lot of questions. They asked who did it, why did they do it. We don’t have any answers,” said parent Rachelle Nunez.

“Their school is what it is and they expect it to be the same when they come back tomorrow. And for them to come back and not have a playground, they have to reorganize and think of different things to do,” said superintendent Dr. Gary McIntire.

Donations like hula hoops, basketballs, and jump ropes will be for the kids to use until the playground is repaired.

The school district says if people want to donate the best way is to call the school to find out what they need or what they already have: (831) 636-4460.

As for the criminal investigation, police have collected evidence from the scene but are still looking for any tips. If you know anything you can call 1-800-78-CRIME or School Resource Officer Michael Paddy at 636-4330 ext. 150