Local police and firefighters, along with the Massachusetts State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit, are investigating two small fires set on two consecutive Saturdays inside Our Lady Star of the Sea Church on Atlantic Avenue.
The first incident occurred Sept. 21, followed by a second on Sept. 28, when crews responded around 11:42 a.m. to a bathroom fire. In both cases, the flames were quickly extinguished and caused no permanent damage.
Investigators determined the fires were intentionally set and identified a 12-year-old juvenile as the sole suspect. Because the case involves a minor, no further details will be released.
“We take all fire incidents seriously, no matter how small, and are grateful for the teamwork that helped us bring this case to a swift resolution,” Fire Chief Jason Gilliland said.
Police Chief Dennis King emphasized that the incidents appear to be isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the community or parish.
Monsignor Timothy Moran of Our Lady, Star of the Sea said at a press conference that the fires, likely lit by matches are “more of an emotional reality than a direct threat.”
He added that “just a few burning papers” were found in the bathroom.
“There are all kinds of stressors in our community today and it effects different people different ways and at different times and I think this is an opportunity actually and if we can take advantage of this opportunity that is exactly what we will be doing,” Moran said.
“If it is somebody that could just use a little assistance, all the better,” he said.
