- April 15, 2024
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Palm Coast Fire Department responds on the scene. Photo by Paige Wilson
It was determined a student had set fire to a paper towel dispenser located in Building No. 2. Photo by Paige Wilson
It was determined a RES student had set fire to a paper towel dispenser located in Building No. 2. The sprinkler system kept flames to the single bathroom. Photo courtesy of Shannon Martin
A Palm Coast Fire Department engine pulls into Rymfire Elementary School. Photo by Paige Wilson
Press release by Jason Wheeler, Flagler Schools community information specialist
At approximately 12:30 p.m. on Friday, May 18, the fire alarm at Rymfire Elementary School was activated and all students were evacuated. It was determined a student had set fire to a paper towel dispenser located in Building No. 2. The sprinkler system kept flames to the single bathroom.
With the threat of severe weather in the area, the buildings on the other side of campus were determined safe and all students were then moved into those rooms, as well as the gymnasiums. There were no injuries during this incident.
Crews with the Palm Coast Fire Department, as well as Flagler Schools Custodial, are in the process of clearing the area of water and getting classrooms cleaned, and students are returning to their classes. Students in the kindergarten and first-grade classrooms are being moved to alternate rooms at this time so that instruction can continue.
Flagler Schools does not anticipate this having a major impact on dismissal at 3:20 p.m. All after-school activities are still taking place.
School cleanup crews will work throughout the weekend to ensure the affected classrooms will be ready for students Monday.
In an email, Palm Coast Communications and Marketing Manager Cindi Lane said Fire Chief Mike Beadle said: "Fire is out by sprinklers, and we are on scene assisting with water damage. Situation under control."
The Flagler County Sheriff's Office sent a press release out later on Friday with more details on the student's penalty.
According to the FCSO release, the juvenile was released to his mother, but he was issued a civil citation for criminal mischief with a recommendation that he be evaluated as a candidate for the fire starter program.
The FCSO release also states that RES is currently discussing disciplinary actions leading up to a five-day suspension.
