This morning, it was reported that a memorial built near the spot where Michael Brown was fatally shot by officer Darren Wilson in Ferguson, Mo. last month burned to the ground overnight. Now it appears as though neighborhood residents have rebuilt it.
The cause of the blaze has yet to be identified, but the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that police suspect candles were responsible. However, several residents believe this is a case of arson. According to the Riverfront Times, Ferguson Police Chief Tom Jackson released a statement about the fire asking anyone with information to come forward:
We're all saddened by the fire that was reported at one of the Michael Brown Memorials this morning and are trying to obtain as much information as possible to determine what happened. At this time the cause is unknown.
To anyone who believes we didn't do everything in our power to put this fire out I want to apologize and let you know that was not the case. Some of our police cars are equipped with an emergency kit that includes a fire extinguisher and Sgt. (Harry) Dilworth was first on the scene and attempted to put the fire out but couldn't so he alerted the Fire Department and they ultimately put out the fire.
Jackson are requesting that anyone with more information about the fire come forward.
[via the Riverfront Times, St. Louis Post-Dispatch and Gawker]
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