Albuquerque Ablaze: Suspected Arsonist Sets Church Alight

Albuquerque Ablaze: Suspected Arsonist Sets Church AlightAlbuquerque Ablaze: Suspected Arsonist Sets Church Alight Albuquerque, NM – A historic church in Albuquerque has been destroyed by fire in what is being investigated as an arson. The blaze erupted at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in the early morning hours, sending flames and smoke billowing into the sky. Witnesses reported seeing a man fleeing the scene after the fire started. The suspect is described as a male in his late teens or early 20s, wearing a dark hoodie and jeans. Firefighters battled the inferno for hours, but the church’s wooden structure proved to be highly combustible. The flames consumed the roof, walls, and interior, leaving only a charred skeleton behind. The church, which was built in the early 1900s, was a beloved landmark in the Albuquerque community. It served as a place of worship, gatherings, and cultural events for generations of Catholic parishioners. “This is devastating,” said Father Michael Singleton, the church’s pastor. “Not only have we lost a beautiful building, but we have lost a part of our history and our hearts.” Investigators from the Albuquerque Fire Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are conducting a joint investigation. Arson is suspected due to the suspicious nature of the blaze and the witness reports of a fleeing individual. “We are working closely with local law enforcement and the ATF to bring the perpetrator of this heinous crime to justice,” said Fire Chief David Downey. The community is reeling from the loss of the church. Members have gathered outside the smoldering ruins, expressing shock and grief. “This was a place where I came to find solace and peace,” said Mary Lucero, a longtime parishioner. “Now it’s gone, and my heart is heavy.” The suspected arson has raised concerns about the safety of other places of worship in Albuquerque. The FBI has issued a warning to religious leaders and security personnel to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the loss of a treasured landmark and the realization that someone may have deliberately targeted their place of worship.