FBI, ATF investigate fire that destroyed tipi at Haskell Indian Nations University
After a fire destroyed a tipi honoring 2020 graduating seniors over the weekend on the Haskell Indian Nations University campus in Lawrence, the fire department says it is working with federal agencies to investigate the cause.
The Lawrence-Douglas County Fire-Medical Department said in a news release that it is working closely with the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as the investigation continues.
The fire was reported about 4:35 a.m. Saturday. A Haskell security guard reported the fire, which was found near the intersection of Barker and Indian avenues, the fire department said.
Firefighters arrived within minutes and extinguished a small fire that remained on the tipi.
At the request of the university, the fire department began conducting an investigation, which has been ongoing.
A fundraiser is underway to replace the ceremonial tipi. Haskell Foundation executive director Aaron Hove said the tipi will cost $2,500 to $3,000 to replace.
Since it began May 9, the foundation’s fundraiser on Facebook has raised over $15,000.
Includes reporting from the Associated Press.
This story was originally published May 12, 2020 at 9:24 AM.
