A fire that damaged St. Mary‘s Catholic Church in Franklin on Wednesday evening is believed to have been arson and now state officials are offering a $10,000 reward for information.
First responders went to the church around 5:45 p.m. on Wednesday and quickly knocked down the fire, Franklin Fire Chief James G. McLaughlin, Franklin Police Chief Thomas J. Lynch and State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said in a joint statement. The fire caused heavy smoke conditions inside the building that required “extensive ventilation,” officials said.
“Houses of worship play a vital role in every community, and our hearts go out to everyone who made St. Mary’s a part of their lives,” McLaughlin said. “We’re deeply relieved that no one was injured and that firefighters were able to contain the fire damage.”
The exact origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation but “an examination of the scene, witness interviews, and other evidence” convinced investigators the fire was intentionally set.
Officials initially offered a $5,000 reward for information but the amount was later doubled by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Anyone with information is urged to call 1-800-682-9229.
