A historic Catholic church in Phoenix, Arizona, that was badly damaged in a fire believed to be arson has now been ordered to be demolished.
The St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, located near 40th Street and Shea Boulevard, caught fire in the early hours of May 1. The fire destroyed most of the church’s interior, including the altar, pews, and roof.
Firefighters arrived at the scene around 1:30 a.m. and found heavy smoke and flames coming from the building.
Crews managed to stop the fire from spreading to nearby structures, but the church was already severely damaged. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Phoenix Police Department are currently investigating the fire as arson.
According to the Phoenix Fire Department, investigators found clear signs that the fire was intentionally set. As a result, the damaged structure has now been deemed unsafe, and the city has ordered its demolition. A timeline for the demolition is still being finalized.
The Diocese of Phoenix expressed sadness over the incident, stating that the church was not just a building but a place filled with memories for many people. St. Joseph’s Church had served the local Catholic community for more than 50 years. It was a place for worship, weddings, baptisms, and many special events.
Parishioners have come together since the fire, holding prayer services outside the church and discussing plans for a possible rebuild in the future. Some members of the community have also started online fundraisers to help raise money for reconstruction.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the fire to come forward. A reward may be available for tips that lead to an arrest. The case remains under investigation.