Newton Fire and Police Departments are seeking information from the public about an apparent case of arson regarding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) near 85 Dudley Road on Saturday, June 8. The Newton Fire Department responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls about 5:30PM and on arrival found an ATV completely consumed by fire. The vehicle, later determined to be a Polaris 900 UTV, had been parked in a secluded part of the property, near a trail.
The 14+ acre property, adjacent to Newton South between Dudley and Brandeis Roads, was in the news last year.
The Newton Fire Department, Newton Police Department, and State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office investigated the incident. Based on witness interviews and evidence at the scene, they believe the fire was set intentionally, and they seek the public’s help in gathering information.
“We’re asking anyone who has information on this fire or was present in the area of Dudley Road late Saturday afternoon to contact the Arson Watch Reward Program at 1-800-682-9229,” said Acting Police Chief McMains. “You can remain anonymous if you prefer.”
State Fire Marshal Davine said that the Arson Watch Reward Program, coordinated by The Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association, offers rewards of up to $5,000 for information that prevents or detects arson crimes.