Flames engulfed the Devine Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) buildings early Saturday morning. The incident left both administrators and  locals baffled, and the case is currently under investigation by authorities.

“I received a call at 1:20 in the morning that Saturday, the 26, that one of the DAEP buildings was on fire,” Devine superintendent Linda McAnelly said. “When I arrived at the scene, the fire was contained to one portable, but it was spreading fast.”

At first, it was unclear whether the cause of the fire was simply an accident or a cruel act of violence toward the program.

“I was at the scene the rest of that night. I left around 11 a.m., and was later informed that the team investigating the fire found evidence that accelerants were used. Also, Jack Morris informed me that the funeral home had been robbed that same night.” McAnelly said. “I was shocked. I thought something like this wouldn’t happen in Devine.

While both incidents of arson and theft are being investigated, DAEP will still continue. The alternative education program is being held in the portables at Devine Middle School, and the shift to another location ran smoothly.

“Our staff was so adaptable and it was a comfortable shift. Coach Cross and Coach McIver were so willing to do it, and Coach Cross was really great in organizing throughout the entire process.” McAnelly said.

Even though the situation has been sorted out and the fire is being investigated, the shock of the incident has not yet worn off.

“At first, I was just in shock and disbelief. Then, there was a sense of anger because of the loss to the school and the students. We worked so hard to make the DAEP building nice, and we were quite proud of it. It’s just sad and disappointing, really disappointing.” McAnelly said.