Hopewell soccer complex closed after 'suspicious' fire breaks out in concession stand

HOPEWELL − Arson is suspected as the cause of a late-night fire Sunday at a city-owned soccer complex/

Crews quickly extinguished the fire in the concession stand at Atwater Park's sports complex, but the damage was such that the Hopewell Recreation & Parks Department opted to shutter it while the investigation continues.

"As a result of the fire, Atwater Soccer Complex will be closed until further notice while cleanup and investigation efforts are under way," Hopewell public information officer Ginger Holland said in a statement. "We ask that community members stay away from the affected area to allow emergency responders to work safely and efficiently."

Even though an investigation into the cause is ongoing, Holland said, the fire department calls the blaze's origin "suspicious."

Holland said updates on the complex's reopening will be released as soon as they become available.

The complex is part of Atwater Park in northwestern Hopewell, just off River Road and Interstate 295.

Anyone who may have information about the concession stand fire is asked to contact Hopewell Fire Marshal Benjamin Gomes at (804) 541-2290.