The University of Kentucky Police Department and the UK Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating two separate fires, according to a campus-wide crime bulletin issued Wednesday, Jan. 24.
UKPD received a report on Jan. 19 that two separate fires took place in a UK residence hall on Jan. 16 and Jan. 17.
The fires were set in Chellgren Hall, according to the UK Fire Marshal campus fire log.
The bulletin also said the fires were “intentionally set” by the same student “involving a roll of paper towels.” A different student used a sink to extinguish the fire.
“Such acts are a violation of KRS 513.040, Arson in the third degree,” the bulletin said.
Those found guilty of third-degree arson may face one to five years in prison.
The fire log shows there have been five fires since the start of 2024.
The crime bulletin was issued in compliance with the “Timely Notice” provision of the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Police and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1998.
UKPD said when locating a fire, first pull the fire alarm, then dial 911 and extinguish a fire only if you are properly trained.
UKPD encourages the public to know fire escape routes, evacuate immediately after the fire alarm is activated and to report suspicious persons on campus using the LiveSafe App.
