Rash Of Arson Fires Spark War Of Words

Chief Herbert Redden spoke to News Center 7 on Monday after the Dayton Firefighter’s Union raised concerns about safety levels and equipment following a massive fire in the Five Oaks neighborhood Sunday morning when five vacant houses burned in a suspected arson case.

The houses were leveled on Bellevue Avenue, and the firestorm of words continues to grow.

During the fire on Sunday, every available fire crew in the department was called, leading fire union officials to criticize the short-staff department and underfunded department.

Brad French with the fire union said, “The union is concerned with the short staff and the rash of vacant house fires, particularly in the Five Oaks neighborhood.”

Redden responded, saying “It wasn’t a sense that the city was not covered. We had an unusual situation presented to us.”

Redden admitted to News Center 7 that there was a 30-minute gap when the city’s fire stations were unmanned until mutual aid arrived.

“There were medical calls, but no other fire calls,” Redden said.

The chief contends that he has plenty of staff and apparatus to protect the city. Even it some of the engines that cover the Five Oaks neighborhood have been taken out of service.

Redden said, “As staffing permits, we will put people back in service.”

The chief also said when it comes to the overall issue of stopping the arsonists who are targeting the vacant houses, they do have a suspect who they believe is responsible for at least 10 fires over the past two years.