Investigation underway as vacant waterpark catches fire days after approved sale

A massive fire broke out at a former waterpark last evening, and an investigation is underway.

Fort Rapids Waterpark shuttered in 2016 after it was found to be violating numerous city codes. Plus, it had a history of issues that caused health problems, like asthma attacks, bronchitis, and vomiting. 

In 2017, new owners bought the property,  but it never reopened. Back in August, an arrest warrant was issued for owner Jeff Kern, who failed to appear at a Franklin County Environment Court hearing. Kern has been battling lawsuits from the city for failing to keep the former waterpark up to code. 

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The Fort Rapids lore doesn’t stop there. Three days ago, For Rapids was sold to a real estate investor, with plans to convert the buildings into affordable housing units. But yesterday, around 11:46 p.m., the fire department was called to scene, as the far west, 2-story hotels adjacent to the waterpark area were engulfed in flames. 

Geitter said the building is “significantly damaged,” but no victims were found, and the firefighters were all safe. 

The roof collapsed and the walls collapsed, and Geitter said it would be up to the new developers if they want to demolish the portion of the damaged building. 

Fire Chief Jeffrey Geitter said he and his team are staying “open-minded to see why it started, but it’s still undetermined” if this was arson. An arson investigation team is currently on the scene. 

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