Fire hits political signs in Decatur

Decatur police are investigating an arson incident that occurred on Monday, Nov. 2, at a small city-owned greenspace known as the Bee Garden. The site is located at the corner of Willow Lane and Superior Avenue.

Lieutenant John Bender of the Decatur Police Department stated that officers responded after an unknown person intentionally set several political signs on fire. Bender described the act as an attempt to destroy the signs. One sign belonged to Jon Ossoff. The other signs were damaged beyond recognition.

A resident who reported the incident described the sequence of events. One sign was nearly completely burned. The fire spread into the mulch at the site and reached the base of a large tree. It then moved to a second sign. The resident noted that the flames were close to several nearby homes.

Decatur firefighters arrived at the scene and prevented more serious property damage or injuries. The Criminal Investigations Division is currently handling the case. Police have not identified a suspect or announced a motive.

The fire took place the night before Election Day. Police have not stated whether investigators believe the signs were targeted because of their political content.