3 teenagers charged with arson over destruction of Scarborough playground

Three teenagers, one a juvenile, have been charged with arson in the destruction of a beloved Scarborough school playground earlier this month.

The May 6 blaze at Mary Shadd Public School, in the working-class Malvern neighbourhood, left behind just the shell of a kindergarten play structure that was built last year at a cost of $20,000, raised by parents and supporters over five years.

Police said it was clear a fire-accelarant had been used to ignite and burn down the plastic structure, which was supposed to have been fire resistant.

In arson fires, the use of such accelarants commonly leaves behind a tell-tale "hot spot."

Several businesses, including Canadian Tire, have pitched in with funds for a replacement.

The three teens, aged 19, 18 and 17, were arrested following what detectives describe as a flood of tips from the public.

Each is charged with one count of arson causing damage to property, and the trio are to appear in court June 27.

The names of the accused were not released because one is a minor, and identifying the other two could reveal the boy's name, shielded by provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.