City Fires Concern Residents
By: Jasmine Brooks
Updated: January 27, 2013
SHAMOKIN, NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY-Two fires in one day, on the same city street have Shamokin Police working around the clock to find out who's responsible. "They're abandoned properties. There was no electricity going to either property. Some of the findings we have found are leading us to believe they are suspicious in nature." says, Patrolman Raymond Siko. The first fire happened early Thursday morning at a vacant property on Shamokin Street.The second, just three blocks away, later Thursday evening. Both fires were started from inside the buildings. "Right now, our first fire we had several points of origin throughout the building. I cant release where. The second fire, when we arrived, it appeared it was centered in the basement area." says, Siko. Police aren't the only ones who think these fires are suspicious, local residents are also questioning what has happened. "Someone's doing something that they shouldn't be doing." says, Lee Schankweiler. David Fidler owns a nearby craft shop. He recently increased his fire insurance to protect his store, that is filled with flammable items. He too believes the recent fires were set intentionally. "I would imagine so, they don't start by themselves. I don't know if it's intentional or someone's trying to keep warm or what." says, Fidler. The public is asked to contact authorities if they have any information, meanwhile police are keeping a close eye on their city. "What's happening is our chief of police has stepped up patrols in the area. Almost every officer from the department, in one way or another, is assisting with the investigations." says, Siko.
