MIAMI (WSVN) - A fire at the Melreese Country Club is being investigated after officials said 40 new golf carts were intentionally set ablaze.
Despite Tuesday night’s fire, golfers were out and ready to play at the country club located near Northwest 37th Avenue and 14th Street, Wednesday afternoon.
Meanwhile, police continue to investigate the fire. “There was a lot of fire damage, so it’ll be taking some time before we can actually determine exactly what was the cause, and then also those explosions that people heard,” said Miami Fire Rescue Capt. Ignatius Carroll.
Officials said a security guard heard a series of explosions and called 911. Area residents also contacted the emergency line.
“The way it looks right now, we are looking at this fire intentionally being set,” said Carroll.
Jennifer Jonely, who was visiting the course, was appalled by the news. “I just couldn’t believe that someone would senselessly burn golf carts,” she said.
Management told 7News that surveillance cameras captured someone placing towels by the golf carts before the fire broke out.
“We are looking at the footage. We did see someone who we consider a person of interest that we’re working with the police department to try and identify,” Carroll said.
Melreese Country Club has recently been in the news as David Beckham and his team have been trying to secure the location for his proposed soccer stadium.
Just two weeks ago, Miami commissioners rescheduled a decision on whether voters will have a say on the stadium’s future.
“After being here for 38 years, never having any incidents at the golf course, you know, I guess everybody will make their own assumptions, but it’s pretty evident that it’s not normal,” said the witness.
The damage the fire left behind was evident Wednesday afternoon.
Officials said no one was injured and new golf carts have already been brought in.
The fire is not stopping these golfers.
“You know, the courses are playable, and we’re glad we got to play,” said golfer Betsy Perez.
“We’re thankful they are making due, and I think it’s awesome that despite what’s happened, they’re not letting that disrupt their business,” Jonely said.
Officials believe this fire may be connected to another one involving a City of Miami pickup truck back in June.
“What we also are looking into is another fire that took place not far from here, at the Grapeland Park,” said Carroll. “Both of these incidents are very similar in nature.”
The now charred golf carts were brought to the country club just a month ago.
The manufacturer delivered nearly 20 carts Wednesday and are expected to bring in more at the end of this week.
If you have any information on who did this, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $1,000 reward.
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