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News from the Keweenaw Peninsula November 9, 2001 Press Release © 2001 Michigan Technological University

Firefighters extinguish small fire on MTU residence hall roof

 HOUGHTON -- Michigan Technological University's Public Safety Department is investigating a small fire on the roof of the Wadsworth Hall cafeteria that was extinguished early Friday morning, Nov. 9.

An alert student notified Public Safety that a rag or small piece of wood was burning on the roof. Notified immediately, Houghton Fire Department personnel discovered a plastic bottle stuffed with paper on fire. They quickly extinguished the flames. Little or no damage was done to the roof, and authorities determined there was no need to evacuate the residence hall.

The bottle and its contents are being turned over to the Michigan State Police and the state fire marshal for further investigation.

"I commend the students, employees and Houghton firefighters involved for their vigilance and quick response to this incident," Provost Kent Wray said.

Public Safety Director Jon Ahola says this type of behavior is not a prank. Arson of a dwelling house is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison under Michigan law.

Anyone with any information on the incident, including anyone who may have seen suspicious activity around Wadsworth Hall late Thursday night or early Friday morning, is encouraged to call Public Safety at 487-2216.