WESTON – Police in the small town of Weston are investigating a reckless burning at the city park.

A news release from Officer Joshua Henningsen said someone tried to use a lighter or similar device to ignite several picnic tables as well as the wooden awning that extends over an outdoor dining area. The attempt didn’t set the tables on fire but melted plastic and resin.

Henningsen said a public works employee found what is of greater concern – a gas can hidden behind the cardboard recycling dumpster. City workers took the can before anyone could have used the gasoline on the nearby cardboard.

The city park has been active with vandalism and other property crime during the last few months. The Weston City Council recently accepted a citizen volunteer to lock the park at dusk. Weston police are running extra patrols in the area and actively investigating this incident. The East Umatilla County Fire District also is assisting with the investigation and agreed to provide extra patrols.

The park is a popular spot for daily and it hosts several events throughout the year, including Pioneer Days.

If you see suspicious activities at the call Umatilla County’s non-emergency dispatch at 541-966-3651.