MUKILTEO — An apparent arson at Columbia Elementary School late Saturday caused more than $100,000 in damage. The school will be closed Monday, according to the Mukilteo School District.
The fire was reported just after 10 p.m. Saturday at the campus along Harbour Pointe Boulevard.
It apparently started in a portable toilet, Assistant Fire Chief Brian McMahan said. When crews arrived, flames were spreading to the eaves of the building.
Heavy smoke filled the gym and kitchen. The contents, including computers and electrical equipment, were damaged, McMahan said. Fans were set up to ventilate the rooms.
City crews were joined by teams from Snohomish County Fire District 1, Everett and Lynnwood. A total of 28 firefighters were called to the school. Some remained on scene until after 12:30 a.m.
Mukilteo police and the Snohomish County Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating. No additional information about their case was shared Sunday.
Most of the damage was to the outside of the building, but the phone and internet lines were affected, school district officials said. They have not determined if campus will re-open Tuesday.
About 600 students attend Columbia. Their last day of school is scheduled for June 26, due to weather make-up days.
Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @rikkiking.
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