Arsonists Start Fire at Leeside Skatepark In Vancouver

On January 21, 2014 the DIY park known as Leeside, located in Vancouver's east side, was set on fire. There's footage from a security camera of two unidentified suspects entering Leeside around 9:30 PM and leaving around 9:45 PM.

"Judging by the damage it's obvious they used gasoline or something flammable, destroying all the new form work, melting all the electrical wiring, and covering Leeside in a heavy, black soot," said Adam Hopkins, one of the many volunteers helping build the DIY. "Hopefully the suspects are identified and charges can be pressed."

Leeside has been under construction now for almost a month with lots of change happening in terms of deisgn, construction, and flow. Vans even released a collaborative shoe back in September with all profits going towards helping build the DIY.

At 4 PM on January 22nd there was a huge turnout of local skateboarders who came to help clean up the aftermath of the fire. 

"There's countless volunteers who have put way more into this project then myself," said Tompkins, "It's a huge bummer that a couple thoughtless individuals decided to ruin it for everyone…It's definitely a set back but it's not gonna stop the Leeside locs."

If you would like to contribute to Leeside you can contact Anti-Social shop in Vancouver: