OPD Probes Possible Arson
On Salvation Army Vehicle
By LIBBY CUDMORE • AllOTSEGO.com Exclusive
ONEONTA – City police are investigating a fire that damaged the Salvation Army canteen truck in the driveway of Maj. Sharon Harford late on New Year’s Eve.
“At about three in the morning on New Year’s, I heard someone ringing my doorbell,” she said. “I didn’t answer, and the next day, I saw that several plastic crates had been tossed out and there were burn marks on the ground.”
Police investigated and believed that someone broke into the back of the locked van and accidentally started the fire, possibly by lighting a candle. A book of matches and a lighter were taken as evidence, and one corner of the van showed considerable damage.
The vehicle, which will now need to be towed and refurbished, is used during disasters to feed workers. “It serves the community,” said Harford, “It is very much needed.”
Anyone with any information is encouraged to call the Oneonta Police, (607) 432-1113