FRANKLIN — A 10-year-old boy from Milwaukee was taken into custody as part of an investigation into a Walmart fire in Franklin on Monday night, according to the Franklin Police Department.
The fire caused extensive smoke damage and merchandise losses estimated at several million dollars, according to a release from the Franklin Fire Department.
Crews responded to the Walmart near 27th Street and Sycamore Avenue just before 9 p.m. Monday, July 14, after reports of a structure fire.
When firefighters arrived, they found store occupants evacuating and heavy smoke throughout the building, according to the fire department.
Watch: Fire at Franklin Walmart under control
The store’s automatic fire sprinkler system had activated, which helped control the fire’s spread and limited smoke production. This allowed all customers and employees to evacuate safely, according to the fire department.
No injuries to civilians or first responders were reported.
While preliminary damage estimates are still being evaluated, fire officials said the smoke damage was extensive throughout the store, resulting in merchandise losses estimated at several million dollars.
Police say the store will remain closed until a full safety assessment and damage evaluation are complete.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Franklin Police Department in conjunction with the Franklin Fire Department.
However, police said arson charges will be referred to the Milwaukee County Juvenile Justice Center as a result of the investigation.
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