By Joanna Putman
Police1
MCKEESPORT, Pa. — An investigation is underway after four cruisers were set on fire, an act the local authorities are describing as targeted arson against a police department, WTAE reported.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has joined the investigation and is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, according to the report.
Chief Mark Steele of the McKeesport Police Department expressed his shock at the incident.
“To get woke up at 3:12 in the morning that four police cars are on fire in your lower lot, my heart sunk to my stomach. I’ve never had that call before.”
The vehicles involved included two marked and two unmarked vehicles, which, according to the mayor’s office, were used as backup and their loss has not affected police operations, according to the report. ATF and the Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s Office were on the scene to collect evidence.
Mayor Michael Cherepko also commented on the arson, emphasizing the relief that no injuries occurred.
“That’s the important thing here because, let’s face it, obviously this is an attack on police,’ Cherepko told WTAE.
Fire has been a powerful tool and weapon since the beginning of time. In this video, the president of a public safety training company explains the ABCs of fire as a weapon and the importance of coordinated police-fire responses.
