Police Investigate Arsons, Vandalism in South Medford

– Allison Goldsberry

Medford Police and Fire have joined forces with the State Fire Marshal’s Office to investigate a series of suspicious fires and acts of vandalism on Alexander Avenue.

The first suspected arson happened on February 25 around 7:20PM near 85 Alexander Avenue. A 911 call reported fire and smoke in the street, and arson investigators determined through evidence collected at the scene that the fire had been intentionally set. On March 3 around 11:30PM a similar incident occurred near 96 Alexander Avenue. Police believe the fires are connected with several acts of vandalism that have occurred in the area in the past few months.

Investigators are asking anyone with information about these crimes to contact the Medford Police Department Investigative Services Unit at 781-391-6765, or the statewide toll-free Arson Hotline at 1-800-682-9229. All calls are confidential. The Arson Watch Reward Program, funded by the property and casualty insurance companies of Massachusetts, is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that helps to solve the case.

“The crime of arson affects the whole community, not just those whose property is destroyed or whose lives are threatened. If anyone has seen or heard anything that could help investigators, please contact the investigation,” said a police statement.