STEELTON, Pa. (AP) - Police say a fire that destroyed a Pennsylvania church on Good Friday was no accident.
Steelton police on Saturday posted a notice seeking information from the public on what they call “a non-accidental fire” in a vacant house next to Bible Fellowship Christian Church shortly after 5 p.m. Friday.
Authorities said the flames quickly spread to the church. Firefighters were able to salvage a few items from the pulpit. Officials said the congregation hasn’t been inside the building since the start of the coronavirus epidemic.
Damage to the vacant building and the church was estimated to total $100,000. PennLive.com reported that the church has been in the community for about 100 years. The pastor’s daughter, Kimberly Turns, said the family isn’t yet sure how much of the damage will be covered by insurance.
A state police fire marshal is investigating the cause of the blaze. Anyone with information is being asked to call investigators or leave a tip on Crimewatch.
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