Sandbar Arson Still Unsolved

Posted on Author WKVI
No word has been released on the cause of the fire at the Bass Lake Sandbar.
No word has been released on the cause of the fire at the Bass Lake Sandbar.

Starke County detectives are continuing in their investigation of the arson committed at the Sandbar at Bass Lake.

Police and fire officials have not released the cause of the fire due to the ongoing investigation.

Five fire departments battled the early morning fire on Dec. 2. It took three hours to extinguish. Investigators from the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office returned with an arson ruling several weeks after the incident.

Detectives are asking for your help in gathering information about this incident. There is a reward of up to $5,000 if you can relay information that leads to the arrest of any person(s) involved in this arson. Your anonymous tip can be reported by calling 1-800-382-4628.

Benefit Held for Phil Banasiak

Posted on Author WKVI
Banasiak receives a big kiss on the cheek from his friend David Lawandowski

“You never know how many friends you have until you really need them.” That was said by well known Starke County resident, Phil Banasiak, at a benefit.

Banasiak, who for many years fought fires as the Bass Lake Fire Chief, was hosted at the benefit at the Sandbar Saturday night. With almost 400 people in attendance, the popular figure was the center of attention, as many well wishers had fond memories that they shared with the honored guest.

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