Posted at 6:31 p.m., Monday, June 19, 2006
Fire officials: Lab School fire was arson
Associated Press
"With the destruction being so complete, after we had done everything and done a comprehensive review of all of the material, investigators concluded that it was intentionally set," fire spokesman Capt. Kenison Tejada said.
Police opened a first-degree arson investigation under a new arson law that was signed into effect earlier this month. The law carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
The June 13 fire stated outside the theater area of the 67-year-old wooden classroom and office building, fire officials said.
No other details were released, because of the criminal investigation.
Police were continuing to ask for the public's help in solving the case.
"Our investigators have interviewed some witnesses, but we are asking again for anybody who has seen something or heard anything to please call CrimeStoppers," police Capt. Frank Fujii said.
"People have been concentrating on the dollar value of the fire. I think what we've failed to mention so far is the impact it has to the students of this school," he said.
Despite the damage, summer school classes continued at the school operated by the University of Hawai'i.
