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Arrest made after fire at local church

ESCANABA — A 19-year-old Gladstone male was arrested Monday in connection with a fire at an Escanaba church which was also broken into and vandalized inside, according to Escanaba Public Safety.

Firefighters responded to the 7:07 p.m. fire alarm at Harbor Lights Church of God, located at 612 2nd Ave. S., to find the interior of the building filled with smoke, stated Det. Lt. Darin Hunter in a news release this morning.

A fire that was determined to be intentionally set in the kitchen, had been extinguished by a citizen prior to the fire department’s arrival.

In addition to the fire damage, the church was also vandalized throughout the building with paint thrown on the floor and sprayed on walls and personal items.

A 19-year-old male subject from Gladstone was questioned at the scene regarding his involvement with the extinguishment of the fire, explained Hunter.

“Further investigation and questioning led to the arrest of the 19-year-old male for breaking and entering, malicious damage to property, and arson,” the detective added.

The subject remains lodged in the Delta County Jail. His name is not being released pending his arraignment on charges in Delta County District Court.

Investigation continues into the incident to determine if additional individuals were involved, stated Hunter.

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