Hamilton police investigate suspected arson at church

Hamilton police are conducting an arson investigation into a suspicious fire that broke out at a Roman Catholic church in the City’s east end on Wednesday.

Police say the fire was reported at around 1 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church located at 128 Edgemont St. South.

When officers arrived, the church was full of smoke, the back room was on fire, and both altars were burned.

A small glass window was also broken, and items were thrown all over the sanctuary. Plus, two cases of worship wine were stolen.

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Kevin Upendran, Administrator of St. John Baptist Church, says he can’t believe someone would do this.

“This is a nice neighbourhood, a relatively safe neighbourhood, and for people to just break in and to destroy something that is so sacred to us… you feel violated really, and disrespected,” Upendran said.

Damage is estimated at between $50,000 to $75,000, and police say the Hate Crime Unit has been notified.

The church is expected to remain closed for at least three to four weeks while the cleanup continues.