Minors involved in Massachusetts church fires

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Local authorities are investigating two separate arson attacks on churches in the state, each involving a juvenile suspect. In Marblehead, a 12-year-old boy has been identified as the sole perpetrator of two minor fires inside a church. In Beverly, a 17-year-old boy faces charges of trespassing and intentionally setting fire to a religious structure.

Marblehead Incidents: Our Lady Star of the Sea Church

On two consecutive Sundays—September 21 and 28—small fires were reported at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, located on Atlantic Avenue in Marblehead. Each time, the fire originated in a bathroom and was quickly contained, causing no permanent damage.

The investigation was conducted by local police and fire departments along with the state Fire Marshal's Office (State Fire Marshal's Office), who concluded that the fires were started intentionally.

Authorities revealed that the suspect is a 12-year-old boy, who is believed to be the only person involved. His identity has not been released.

Fire Chief Jason Gilliland noted, “We take all fire incidents seriously, no matter how small… grateful for the teamwork…”

Police Chief Dennis King said the incidents appear to be isolated and that there is no identifiable threat to the community or church members.

The municipality's official website reported that since this is a case involving a minor, no further details of the investigation will be released.

Beverly Fire: Pilgrim Cumberland Presbyterian Church

Early Monday morning, at approximately 3:30 am, a 911 call was received reporting smoke coming from the Pilgrim Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Located at 300 Cabot Street, Beverly.

Firefighters responded quickly and brought the blaze under control before it spread. Minor damage, mainly from smoke, was reported.

Police subsequently arrested a 17-year-old boy, charging him with breaking and entering at night with intent to commit a crime, arson of a building, and arson of a place of worship. The defendant will appear in Salem District Court.

Beverly Police Chief John Lelacheur said the fire was contained thanks to the quick response and emergency call.

The church, although affected by smoke, did not suffer serious structural damage. In her statement, Reverend Valeria Doering Crimson expressed her gratitude for the swift response and noted that the worship space and kitchen were "largely untouched."

Possible relationship and position of the authorities

So far, authorities have indicated that there is no evidence of a connection between the two cases, although both share the characteristic of involving minors and targeting churches in nearby towns.

In Marblehead, the State Marshal's Office assisted with specialized fire and explosion investigations.

Religious leaders at the Marblehead church have expressed their intention to engage with the boy's family to understand the motivations behind the actions, rather than simply responding legally.

Since one of the cases has already resulted in formal charges, the court proceedings in Beverly will continue with a hearing. In Marblehead, it has not yet been announced whether the minor will be formally charged or prosecuted administratively or criminally.

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Sources:

• Telemundo New England
• CBS Boston