The following is a press release from Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority.

The main building at Lake Meridian Park was heavily damage early this morning from a fire that was first reported as smoke in the park, shortly after 1 a.m.

When firefighters arrived, they found the single-story building with smoke coming from the eaves. Most of the fire was in the attic space and was spreading into the building’s individual rooms. Responders were forced to break into the offices to fight the fire.

No one was found in or near the building and there were no reported injuries.

The building houses the city of Kent’s life guards for the lake and much of their equipment. It is too early to say if the fire will affect the life guard services at the lake. The city just recently upgraded the building to add additional bathrooms for beachgoers.

The fire is currently under investigation.

Lake Meridian Park is located in the 15000 block of Southeast 272 Street, and is a popular location for fishing, boating and swimming. The park hosts many public events including a Fourth of July fireworks display and summertime concerts.