WINNEMUCCA — A Lowry High School student was arrested on Friday (Feb. 3) and charged with arson in the fourth degree on allegations she started a fire in the girl’s bathroom in the Math/Science building.

The fire alarms went off at 2:26 p.m. on Thursday (Feb. 2) and caused the evacuation of the school.

According to the statement released by the Humboldt County School District, Officer Jeff Dawson and Lowry High School Administration responded to the location immediately.

Upon entering the restroom, they observed the fire was isolated to a trash bin. It was quickly extinguished – so quick, in fact, there was no damage to the bathroom itself.

After ensuring the fire was out and all staff and students safe, an investigation was initiated.

The investigation was spearheaded by Officer Dawson and culminated with the arrest of a known female juvenile.  After completing an interview with the juvenile, the arrest was made and 4th degree arson charges were filed. The case has subsequently been forwarded to the District Attorney's office.

As was recently reported in SPJ, one of the major projects undertaken from bond-improvement funds was an upgrade of fire alarm systems throughout the district.

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Dave Jensen pointed out the new system worked as anticipated providing an immediate response.

Jensen added, “The staff and students at Lowry High School responded with extreme efficiency and evacuated the school in a calm and orderly manner. This efficiency during the evacuation is an example of the importance of the ongoing drills implemented in the schools throughout the district.”

Jensen concluded, “In addition to expressing our appreciation to the staff and students at Lowry High School for their outstanding response, Humboldt County School District would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Winnemucca Volunteer Fire Department and the Winnemucca Police Department. Both agencies provided a quick response and are appreciated for their assistance and support.”