Inver Grove Heights Police Investigate Linked Arson Incidents at Rich Valley Park
Published: January 14, 2026.
INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA – The Inver Grove Heights Police Department announced on Facebook that they are investigating two suspected arson incidents at Rich Valley Park that authorities believe are connected after portable restrooms were intentionally set on fire on two separate dates.
According to police, both incidents involved fireworks being ignited inside portable restroom units, causing the structures to catch fire and become completely destroyed. Investigators say the fires were deliberately set and share similar circumstances, leading authorities to believe the incidents are related.
The first incident occurred on July 17, 2025, when surveillance video captured three suspects leaving the area in a dark SUV, possibly a BMW, traveling northbound on Rich Valley Boulevard. Images released by police show the vehicle leaving the park shortly after the fire.
Image shared by the Inver Grove Heights Police Department of the first incident.
A second incident occurred on December 20, 2025, when surveillance footage showed three suspect vehicles leaving the park area and traveling northbound on Rich Valley Boulevard. Police identified the vehicles as a dark-colored Ram 1500 pickup truck, a white vehicle possibly a Jeep Cherokee, and a gray sedan. Images from that night show the vehicles exiting the area around the time of the fire.
Image shared by the Inver Grove Heights Police Department of the second incident.
During the review of surveillance footage from the park, investigators also observed what appeared to be cell phone lights, suggesting individuals may have been recording at least one of the incidents as it occurred.
Police say the fires caused significant property damage, with both portable restrooms destroyed. No injuries were reported.
The Inver Grove Heights Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying those responsible. Anyone with information, video footage, or knowledge related to the incidents is encouraged to contact Investigator Ryan Malcolm directly at rmalcolm@ighmn.gov or 651-450-2465.
Additionally, Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest in this case. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
Police emphasize that arson is a serious crime and urge anyone with even minor information to come forward as investigators continue working to identify the individuals involved.
Written by: Will Wight
