07/14/2026
On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Township of Kalamazoo Fire Department responded to a report of two portable restrooms on fire at the Westwood Little League complex, located at 3435 Grand Prairie Road.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and prevented further damage to nearby property. During their initial investigation, firefighters determined the fire was suspicious in nature and requested assistance from the Township of Kalamazoo Police Department.
Through witness interviews and the subsequent investigation, officers identified a juvenile suspect believed to be responsible for intentionally setting the fire. The juvenile was located a short time later, taken into custody without incident, and lodged at the Kalamazoo County Juvenile Home. Arson-related charges have been submitted to the Kalamazoo County Prosecutor's Office for review.
The fire destroyed two portable restrooms and a trash receptacle. Heat from the fire also damaged an electronic scoreboard located above the fire.
The Township of Kalamazoo Police Department and Township of Kalamazoo Fire Department extend their sincere condolences to the Westwood Little League organization, its volunteers, players, families, and the many baseball and softball enthusiasts from throughout the region who have enjoyed these facilities for generations. Community parks and athletic facilities are gathering places that bring people together, and it is unfortunate when acts of vandalism or arson impact the experiences of the young athletes and families who rely on them. We remain committed to working alongside Westwood Little League as they recover from this incident.
The Township of Kalamazoo Police Department and Fire Department would also like to thank the Westwood Little League staff and community members who provided timely information that assisted investigators. Their cooperation was instrumental in the swift identification and apprehension of the suspect.
