By Brian Livingston
Meridian Police Department authorities said Tuesday afternoon a third youth has been charged in the recent fire that caused upwards of $50,000 worth of damage to the office area at Parkview Elementary School in Meridian.
Capt. James Sharpe, commander of the MPD's Investigative Division, said a 13-year old male was taken into custody Monday evening and charged with felony vandalism, arson and burglary. The youth is said to have also been involved in burglaries at Magnolia Middle School near the elementary school campus.
The other two youths, aged 11 and 13 years old, were arrested and charged over the weekend.
At about 6:20 p.m. on June 12, firefighters from the Meridian Fire Department were called to Parkview Elementary School located at 1225 26th Ave. Upon arrival they found the principal's office and the outer office area of the school engulfed in flames and smoke. The flames were quickly knocked down and an arson investigation was launched.
"We always suspected youths in connection with this incident and the others reported at the other school," said Sharpe. "The investigation is nearing its conclusion but there may be other arrests made."
The case will be heard and handled by the Lauderdale County Youth Court. Sharpe said it would be up to a judge to determine if the youths will be charged as adults.
