By Ayla Ozturk
On Saturday April 30, a C-Train storage unit on Redwood High School’s Sierra Vista campus was destroyed by a fire. The unit contained equipment belonging to Redwood’s baseball team.
According to Principal Matt Shin, the fire started in the late afternoon. The two Porta-Potties by the C-Train were set on fire and the flames spread to the unit.
Shin says that the extent of the damage is unknown. “We’re trying to figure out damages to other equipment, big pieces of equipment that were in there,” he says.
Police are investigating the cause of the fire. No information can be released at this time.
Dan Hydash coaches Redwood’s baseball team. According to Hydash, it has taken years to accumulate the expensive equipment.
He says, “To have [the equipment] lost due to just a frivolous act, it was pretty upsetting.”
According to Hydash, the team lost $30,000 worth of equipment such as jerseys, baseballs, bats, and more.
Shin adds that the pitching machine may be damaged as well. A pitching machine that comes with a net can cost up to $1,500.
Gavin Caetano, class of 2024, is a part of Redwood’s Junior Varsity baseball team. He says, “It really sucks [because] we use [the equipment] every day and we need it to practice.”
The loss may be an obstacle for the team, but the community has come together to raise money and replace the equipment.
Baseball programs, former players, and other members of the community have contributed to a GoFundMe.
According to Shin, the fundraiser has exceeded its goal. As of 11:15 AM May 2, $5,830 has been raised.
Hydash is very thankful for the community’s support. He says, “It’s really gratifying knowing that there are a lot of good people still out there, and our community will come together when people are in need.”
Ayla Ozturk
Ayla Ozturk, class of 2024, is a fourth-year journalism student passionate about leading the News section. She is dedicated to informing students and amplifying their voices through Government and Politics writing.
You can reach her at ayla.oz3769@vusd.us.
Tags: ayla ozturk, dan hydash, gavin caetano, Matt Shin, news, rangers, Redwood, redwood baseball, redwood baseball fire, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, redwood high school news, redwood journalism, redwood news, redwood rangers, rhs, visalia ca, visalia news
