By Kyra Gillespie
Police are investigating a series of arson attacks, believed to be linked, which occurred at around 4:50pm on Friday 9 March.
A male was seen lighting a fire with a flare at a park area on Ben Drive in Pakenham and is described as being Caucasian, medium to solid build wearing a grey hooded top and shorts.
He was last seen running north away from the scene.
Around 5-10 minutes later another fire was lit at a playground on Irving Road in Pakenham, completely destroying the equipment.
The damaged playground is situated less than 100 metres from Pakenham Heights Kindergarten.
Teacher Fiona Sporish said that the staff members were just leaving the kindergarten when the blaze broke out.
“We didn’t realise what was happening until a lady drove down and said the playground was on fire,” Ms Sporish said.
“I immediately panicked, thinking it was our playground.
“The playground would only be about 50-60 metres behind us, which is a little too close for comfort.”
Ms Sporish said there have been “a few tears” shed as a result of the incident.
“There have been a few tears – the kids are really upset about it,” she said.
“The playground has always served as a meeting point for families both before and after kinder as a place to have a chat and for the kids to have a play.
“It’s definitely a place that has played an important role in the community and for families.
“We hope they rebuild it.”
The impact of the flare on the play equipment made an ‘explosion’ sound according to concerned community members on Facebook.
Police believe that both fires have been started by the same person and request any information to Detective Senior Constable Mick Van Der Heyden at Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit 59452554 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.
