Police suspect church fire in Helsinki was deliberately set
A fire that broke out in an additional building at Munkkivuori Church is suspected to be arson. The fire caused serious damage to the roof of the parish hall.
Police suspect church fire in Helsinki was deliberately set
A fire broke out overnight at Munkkivuori Church in Helsinki in an additional building, and authorities believe it was likely deliberately caused. The fire service received an alert shortly after midnight at 3.31 a.m.
On-duty fire chief Kari Ursin describes how flames started from the end of the building and spread to the roof of the parish hall. Ultimately, more than half of the roof area burnt. Extinguishing operations were unusually prolonged for Helsinki, lasting several hours, although similar operations are typically completed in less than an hour.
Approximately twelve units were dispatched to the scene, and surveillance continued into the morning. Residents in the surrounding area were given a warning about smoke nuisance.
Police have launched a preliminary investigation into the matter as arson. Information about the cause of the fire or the exact value of the damage is not yet available. It is also unclear whether the additional building can still be repaired.
The church, which was completed in 1963, has been planned for decommissioning due to the cost of major renovation work.
Source: Vantaan Sanomat
Source: Google News FI — Crime (fi)