Elementary school students in Kelso were the victims of metal thieves who stole part of their playground Monday night.

The climbing dome outside Barnes Elementary School is gone. Investigators said it looked as though the thieves cut it apart and made off with the metal.

“It’s very shocking. You're used to seeing a certain setup out here on the playground and now a major piece of equipment is gone,” said Principal Brenda Ward.

 Share/read comments: Your thoughts?

He said it will cost thousands of dollars to replace the climbing dome but the school has already received an anonymous $500 donation and it plans to hold a fundraiser next week.