On January 13, 2023 at approximately 6:50 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a fire located at the Sears Park playground located at 2250 Ambler Avenue. Fire Crews arrived to find the playground heavily involved with fire. There was significant fire damage to the plastic slides and attached equipment. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Damages and cost of replacement are estimated to be $150,000 to $200,000.