FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — An investigation continues into what caused a fire that destroyed part of a playground at a Clovis Unified Elementary School.<\/p>\n
Former students describe the moments as memories going up in flames as they witnessed part of Pinedale Elementary School’s playground catch fire over the weekend.<\/p>\n
Neighbors, including a former student of 6 years, Azriel Alonso, watched as part of his childhood playground burned to the ground.<\/p>\n
“It hurt to watch it burn down. It was like a piece of me was gone,” said Azriel.<\/p>\n
On Monday morning, crews were working on cleaning up the debris.<\/p>\n
Clovis Unified School District describes the surrounding area as a tight-knit group.<\/p>\n
“It’s such a community school, and that neighborhood there they really kind of wrap their arms around that school and their staff there. I think this is a tough thing not just for the school but for the entire community, ” said Clovis Unified Assistant Superintendent and Administrator of Facility Services, Nick Mele.<\/p>\n
Mele estimates that it could take about 4 months to rebuild part of the playground that was destroyed, but they are hoping to work towards having it done sooner.<\/p>\n
The Fresno Fire Department is still investigating what led up to the flames.<\/p>\n
“So hopefully the community will help us in this process to figure out how this happened and maybe prevent it in the future,’ mentions Mele.<\/p>\n
In the meantime, former students are cherishing the happy moments on this playground, carrying the memories in their hearts while looking ahead to the future.<\/p>\n
“Memories burn down basically; it hurts to watch because my family and I always loved this playground,” Azriel continues to mention, “I hope people, or kids, are able to experience what I experienced.”<\/p>\n
Hundreds of students are expected to return to campus from summer break on August 17th.<\/p>\n
If anyone has any information on the fire, they are encouraged to contact the Fresno Fire Department.<\/p>\n
For South Valley news updates, follow Kassandra Gutierrez on Facebook<\/a>, X<\/a> and Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n Copyright \u00a9 2026 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.<\/p>\n