Police Seek Info On Lippold Park Blaze

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — Police with the Crystal Lake Park District are asking for the public's help in tracking down those involved in setting off fireworks that they believe led to a massive fire in the wetland area at Lippold Park.

The blaze Saturday night burned through several acres of wetlands at Lippold Park. Evidence collected suggests unlawful use of fireworks is the cause of the fire, Dan Dziewior, chief of police for the Crystal Lake Park District, told Patch in an email response.

The fire was reported between 9:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday, Crystal Lake Park District Executive Director Jason Herbster told the Northwest Herald. The blaze only caused damage to the wetlands, which were "probably as dry as they've been in seven years," and Lippold Park, at 851 W. Route 176, Herbster told the newspaper.

"The fire had natural fire breaks (walking paths) around the area," said Crystal Lake Fire Chief Paul DeRaedt. "The fire was allowed to burn itself out. There was no damage to any structures."

Crystal Lake Park District police are continuing to investigate the fire. Anyone with information that may help police identify those involved can call Crystal Lake Park District police at 815-336-2415.

Tipsters may remain anonymous.

Following the blaze, and as we near the Fourth of July holiday, authorities are reminding residents to refrain from using illegal fireworks "or other ignition source near dry vegetation, especially during this very dry period as fire spreads fast and is difficult to control."

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