4 March 2024
WINFIELD, Kan. (KSNW) – The Winfield Fire Department has released new information about two January fires, one of which destroyed the VFW post.
On Sunday, Jan. 7, fire crews responded to two separate fires. The first was inside a 2-story home in the 1000 block of E. 9th, while the second fire happened at the VFW post in the 100 block of E. 10th.
Fire Marshal Chad Mayberry says the fire on East 9th has been ruled accidental. The source of the fire was determined to be an electrical device in the kitchen.
Mayberry says the cause of the fire at the VFW can’t be determined because investigators were never able to enter the second floor of the building because it was structurally unsound. However, based on the evidence available, no foul play is suspected.
“We are aware that there is concern in the community regarding the recent fires in Winfield,” said Mayberry in a post to the Winfield Fire Department’s Facebook page. “We are as concerned as you are and are working diligently along with our investigation partnering agencies in continuing to follow up on any open investigations.”
On February 5, someone intentionally set fire to a home in the 400 block of N. Bliss. Feb. 18, around 1 a.m., Windfield Fire responded to a fire in the ditch in the 21000 block of U.S. 77 Highway. A pedestrian walking in the area was questioned and later arrested for the fire.
On Sunday, a fire destroyed the Dream Catcher Salon and Winfield Thrift Store located at 5th and Milligan. Investigators are still working to determine the cause.
No injuries were reported in any of the fires.