Hammond Fire Intentionally Set

We heard the rumors from some of our readers. Now the principal confirms. The auditorium fire was intentionally set and authorities are investigating. (btw we are double posting on the original post as well)

From a note to parents from the principal:

Principal’s Message…

Yesterday, January 7th, Hammond High School experienced an intentionally set fire our in our auditorium. The prompt response of school staff and the fire department, combined with the safety systems that are in place, resulted in the fire being quickly contained. The professional actions of the Hammond High School staff, Security Assistant, and School Resource Officer (SRO) also resulted in a safe evacuation of the school. I applaud the reaction of the students to the fire and evacuation. Every staff member has reported that the students followed directions throughout the incident, responding appropriately to the gravity of the situation.

Personnel from the Howard County Public School System responded quickly and arrived at Hammond High School to assist us. The personnel from HCPSS Building Services Division have done a tremendous job cleaning up after the fire. The damage to the auditorium was extensive enough to temporarily close the auditorium for public use. The projected date to have the facility accessible is January 18th.

I am well aware that having someone intentionally set a fire at Hammond High School is very disconcerting for the staff, students and parents of this community. Please know that the Fire Marshall has an ongoing investigation regarding the fire. The staff, school administration, and the SRO following up on any information we receive regarding the possible suspects. We need the additional ears of the community to help reveal the person or persons responsible for introducing this level of danger in our school. Please contact the school administration or SRO at 410-313-7615 if you have any information that will assist us in completely removing this danger from our school.