Wausau Man Facing Numerous Charges for Fire at his Garage

Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 -- 2:01 PM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) A Wausau man is facing numerous charges related to a fire at his garage earlier this month.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, David Oldenburg Jr. is said to have started a fire in his garage on South 14th Avenue on February 10th. The flames quickly engulfed the building, leading Oldenburg to call for help shortly after midnight.

Investigators say the 56-year-old had previously been warned about starting fires in his garage, most recently in December 2024. He initially told first responders he had stepped outside for a cigarette before the flames started, but later admitted he started a fire in a wood stove despite the previous warnings.

He now faces charges for recklessly endangering safety and negligent handling of fire materials. Police also found methamphetamine in his possession as they were responding to the incident.

All charges carry repeat modifiers which could mean additional prison time if he’s convicted. Court records show Oldenburg is also facing retail theft charges. Those were filed last August.

Previous convictions against him include a felony count of battery or threats against a judge, prosecutor, or law enforcement and theft of moveable property. Oldenburg is jailed on a $1,500 bond. He returns to court on March 5th.

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