Latrobe Little League working to recover after $4,000 worth of equipment lost in fire

Apr. 20—Almost $4,000 worth of equipment used by the Latrobe Little League was lost this week after a fire engulfed a shed used by the organization, president John Russo said.

Police, who responded to the fire at Legion Keener Park in Latrobe shortly after midnight Monday, are investigating the incident, Chief John Sleasman said. The shed, which was fully engulfed in flames when officials arrived on scene, was deemed a complete loss, according to a police report.

"It was absolutely an arson," Sleasman said.

The shed, donated in the fall by Unity-based Aggressive Grinding Services, held a portable pitching mound, two L screens, a tarp and bases, according to Russo.

"I'm really upset because it affects the kids," Russo said. "You didn't take anything out on me, you took it out on my kids and that's why we're all there."

Equipment stored in the shed was used for practices for older players, who will complete tryouts this week, as well as for younger kids who play in the team's minor division.

Russo noted older players will feel the impact of not having equipment for practices. However, due to the covid-19 pandemic, younger players are starting their season next month, meaning Little League officials will have time to order equipment for them to play.

"We kind of got lucky," Russo said. "By having us start a month later, that saved us, it really did."

Still, the fire came after a year when several fundraisers were canceled and the concession stand was forced to close for the pandemic, leaving the league with less money.

"This just really set me off because we came into the season down a lot of money and to have something taken away from us just like that, it's not right," Russo said.

Officials are working to kick off the season, which will open May 23. Russo said he is hopeful the season will be more normal compared to last year, when the dugouts were closed and parents were not permitted in the bleachers. Coaches also worked to disinfect equipment after each use.

This year, league officials are planning to allow players into the dugouts and will slowly bring parents back into the bleachers. The concession stand will open with a limited menu.

Russo added that community members and businesses are offering donations to help cover the costs of what was lost. He said league officials are checking with their insurance agency to see what will be covered. Those who still wish to help can send donations to Latrobe Little League, P.O. Box 202, Latrobe, Pa. 15650.

"It definitely gives me chills whenever I see the support that we get," Russo said. "We are blessed."

According to Latrobe police, an anonymous donor is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of the person or persons involved in the incident.

Anyone with information regarding the fire can call the police department at 724-537-5526.

Megan Tomasic is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Megan at 724-850-1203, mtomasic@triblive.com or via Twitter .