A north Iowa woman has been arrested on an arson charge after she allegedly started a fire outside of a municipal swimming pool.
The Mason City Fire Department says they were called to the Mason City Family Aquatic Center shortly after 8:30 am Friday (08.01) morning, where they found a small fire that was quickly extinguished.
A criminal complaint accuses 47-year-old Erin Gansen of Mason City of starting a fire next to the door of the pool house entrance. The complaint also says firefighters noted there was new graffiti on the sidewalk along with liquids poured on the concrete.
Investigators say Gansen dispensed motor oil outside of the chemical house and put super glue in the locks of the doors.
Gansen was arrested a short time after the incident on charges of first-degree arson, a Class B felony, as well as possession of marijuana and fourth-degree criminal mischief. She was also cited for public intoxication.
Gansen is being held in the Cerro Gordo County Jail on $25,000 cash-only bond. She’s due in court for her preliminary hearing in Cerro Gordo County District Court this Friday (08.08).
