Two Arrested for Arson After Fires Set at Southeast Clarke Park in Athens

Two individuals have been arrested and charged with arson following multiple fires set at Southeast Clarke Park, located at 4440 Lexington Road, according to the Athens-Clarke County Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office.

The initial fire occurred overnight on May 19, 2025, damaging the park’s public restrooms and a baseball field dugout. The fire self-extinguished and was discovered the following morning by Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services staff. No 911 call was made at the time.

Authorities conducted surveillance over the next two nights. On the morning of May 22, the suspects returned to the park and set another fire. They were arrested at the scene.

Based on burn patterns, photographic evidence, and items recovered, the fires were determined to be incendiary in nature.

The suspects, whose names are being withheld pending formal arraignment, are charged with Arson in the Second Degree, a felony offense under Georgia law.

“This incident represents a serious violation of public safety and a senseless act of vandalism against County property,” said Captain Kearney of the Fire Marshal’s Office.

The Fire Department urges the public to report all suspected arson activity immediately.