Investigation underway after fire at Franklin Walmart, 10-year-old taken in for questioning

FRANKLIN, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A 10-year-old is in custody after a fire was started inside a Walmart in Franklin on Monday night, July 14. 

Police say shortly before 9 p.m., Franklin Police and Fire Departments responded to reports of a fire inside the Walmart along South 27th Street. A witness told CBS 58 the fire started in the greeting card aisle, activating the store’s sprinkler system.

Heavy smoke and flames were visible when police arrived at the scene.

Customers and employees were evacuated, and the fire was put out. 

The fire caused extensive damage throughout the building's interior and the store will remain closed until a full safety assessment and damage evaluation is completed. 

Through an investigation, Franklin police took a 10-year-old boy into custody for questioning. 

Arson charges will be referred to the Milwaukee County Juvenile Justice Facility. 

No injuries were reported. 

Preliminary damage estimates are still being evaluated, however, extensive smoke damage was noted throughout the structure resulting in the loss of merchandise estimated to be several million dollars.