PALO ALTO -- A recent rise in arson fires in Palo Alto has resulted in the city's police department increasing patrols. Officers will be making more rounds in the areas surrounding Palo Alto's city parks.
In the last six months, there have been nine arson fires reported in Barron Park. The fires have mostly taken place in out of the way areas of the parks, as the suspects have not been seen starting the fires. Among the items set on fire are benches and portable toilets, most in areas less frequented by visitors.
Investigators say they have found no indication that the fires are all connected.
The most recent fire was reported Wednesday in Bol Park along the jogging trail. However, police say that may have been accidental, as witnesses reported seeing people smoke in the area.
