Officials investigating Begonia playground fire

Arson investigators are looking into the suspicious circumstances surrounding a fire that destroyed a Corona del Mar park playground Monday night, Newport Beach fire officials said Tuesday.

Shortly after 11 p.m. Monday, Newport Beach firefighters were called to Begonia Park’s playground off Bayside Drive and Carnation Avenue, where 20-foot high flames quickly engulfed the 2-year-old playground equipment.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze, but the equipment and surrounding area was burnt, melted and disfigured by the heat. No one was injured. Officials estimate the damage at about $40,000. Investigators have not determined the source of the fire, officials said.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Fire Capt. Glenn White at (949) 644-3299, ext. 2113.

— Joseph Serna