NEWS: Hastings School Fire Under Investigation

Police investigating the arson of a Hastings school at the weekend are looking for the owners of a softball bat found at the scene.

Three classrooms at Irongate Primary School on Walton Way, Flaxmere, were seriously damaged in the fire that broke out around 5.30pm on Sunday.  One classroom was completely gutted by fire and the other two adjoining classrooms were seriously damaged by smoke.

An aluminium softball bat with the words “Regent” and “Rocket” stencilled in blue was found near the scene.  Police believe it was used in an attempt to smash a glass classroom door.

 “We are very keen to identify the owner of the softball bat, or find out any information about its origins,” Detective Ross Alexander said. “It is quite distinctive and someone will know who it belongs to. It’s important that we speak to anyone who has any information about this fire, which has done major damage to the school,” he said.

Police were particularly keen to speak to anyone who had noticed people acting suspiciously around the school on Sunday afternoon and early evening.

“This fire has had a serious impact on one of our local schools and has deeply affected both staff and pupils, who are very upset about losing their classrooms. “Hopefully someone can provide information that will help us find those responsible so they can be held accountable for their actions,” Mr Alexander said.

Anyone with information about the fire should contact Mr Alexander at HB Police on 06 8310700 or information can be left anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.