Vandals set fire in Richmond park washroom—one person arrested
Richmond Fire-Rescue responded to a blaze at Garden City Community Park fueled by a breached aerosol can, causing smoke but minimal structural damage.
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A vandalism incident at Garden City Community Park in Richmond on Thursday night, July 16, triggered a fire response when someone ignited rubbish inside a public washroom.
Firefighters arrived around 9:45 p.m. after reports of "explosive-like" sounds and smoke. Six fire trucks were dispatched after the initial call provided only a general location. Heavy grey black smoke was visible coming from inside the washroom when crews arrived, and they put out the fire quickly thanks to the concrete construction of the building.
Richmond Fire-Rescue Fire Chief Jim Wishlove said the blaze originated from rubbish in a garbage can and was fueled by a breached aerosol can. "It wasn't as much as an explosion," he confirmed.
Minimal damage occurred to the washroom, and after cleanup by city public works, it reopened the next day. One suspect remained at the scene and was arrested. No injuries were reported. Wishlove urged the public to call 911 immediately when hearing or seeing anything unusual, noting that early reporting allows firefighters to arrive quickly and prevent extensive damage.
At a glance
Where did the fire happen?
The fire occurred in a public washroom at Garden City Community Park in Richmond on July 16, 2026.
What caused the fire?
Rubbish in a garbage can was ignited, and the blaze was fueled by a breached aerosol can, according to Richmond Fire-Rescue Fire Chief Jim Wishlove.
Was anyone arrested?
One suspect remained at the scene and was arrested. No injuries were reported.
