Two teens cited in arson at Grand Island elementary school playground, police say

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Grand Island Police are investigating a fire at an elementary school playground as arson.

It happened at Newell Elementary School on Monday around 5:30 p.m. School officials said they were alerted to smoke at the playground area.

The Grand Island Fire Department said crews extinguished the flames quickly.

Officials said that no one was at the playground when the fire was raging and that no injuries occurred.

The school building wasn’t damaged, but the playground will take some time to repair, according to Grand Island Public Schools.

A 15-year-old and a 16-year-old were cited on suspicion of criminal mischief.

GIPS said there will still be school on Thursday, but recess might be inside.