MASON CITY – This Mason City woman allegedly took her rage out on the local public pool and in a possible state of intoxication, lit a blaze outside the structure, busted locks on doors, and planted fresh graffiti before high-tailing away from the scene on a bicycle, but her freedom is now in jeopardy after her foolish morning hijinks.
On August 1, 2025, at 8:40 AM, the Mason City Fire Department responded to a report of a small outside fire at 843 Birch Drive, the Mason City Family Aquatic Center.
Mason City police tell NIT that a witness reported someone walking behind the aquatic center near where a small fire had been ignited next to the side of the building. Officers were on scene by 8:42 AM. Allegedly, a suspect hopped on a bicycle and rode away.
Officers went to look for the suspect while the fire department dealt with the small fire.
The suspect apparently rode the bicycle onto one of the nearby bike trails. Officers searched the trail and soon located 47-year-old suspect Erin Gansen (pictured at top), now on foot. A bicycle was found nearby, discarded. Probable cause was established to charge Gansen for intentionally setting the fire with the intent to burn the building or cause considerable damage. Police also suspect Gansen for graffiti found on the building and damage to multiple door handles and lock sets.
The Mason City Fire Department remained on scene until 9:56 AM.
Mason City Parks and Recreation Department assisted with the investigation and cleaned the area. The aquatic center was able to open on time, providing pool services.
Gansen was arrested on the following charges:
– Arson – 1st Degree (Class b Felony)
– Crim Mischief 4th Degree (Serious Misdemeanor)
– Public Intox (Simple Misdemeanor)
– Possession of Marijuana (Serious Misdemeanor).
There was no significant (structural) damage to the building from fire. However, the other damage caused by various substances was estimated to be between $350-$700 (at time of arrest).
The Mason City Police Department and Mason City Fire Department thanked the citizens who assisted in the investigation.
Gansen was booked into the Cerro Gordo county jail at 9:38 AM that morning. She remains held there on $25,000 cash-only bond and has been appointed a public defender as she awaits an arraignment hearing set for the morning of August 25.