Casa Grande church intentionally set on fire

By New Outlook

One month following the devastating fire at Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Casa Grande, investigators say someone set the fire on purpose. Flames ignited overnight at the parish on October 18, 2024. This weekend, police released video footage of an individual wearing what appears to be a gray colored hoodie with white lettering across the front.

A statement on the department’s Facebook page reads, “Detectives believe the person is this video is responsible for the crime.” It’s unclear where the security footage was obtained but detectives have confirmed the police department is working with federal investigators to solve the case.

The video, though limited, has provided some relief to Father Ariel Lustan, the pastor at Saint Anthony of Padua, who said, “I am grateful to authorities for their diligence in investigating this fire. I hope that the video will help bring closure to this crime.” The longtime priest said he is also relieved that the investigation has revealed there was no negligence on the parish’s part, “It’s reassuring to know that we have managed our properties correctly with electrical wiring and properly extinguishing candles. Early on, there was the possibility that this may have been accidental.”

Multiple agencies were involved in investigating the fire at the parish in Pinal County. Detectives have asked anyone with information about the person in the video to contact the Casa Grande Police Department. Fr. Lustan asks the same, “I know the video is short, but it offers a small window into what may have happened. Please, if you have seen a person wearing that type of clothing, call the authorities so they can properly investigate.”

Liturgical services have not been interrupted at the parish, as the congregation has been celebrating Mass in the parish’s community center and chapel. The church dates to the 1960s, though the initial parish structure has existed for nearly 100 years. Fr. Ariel said fundraising and restoration efforts are underway though it will take many years for the church to return to what it was, “My parish community continues to give me hope that better days are ahead. I cannot thank everyone enough for their prayers and donations. We have received money from the local community and beyond. We are so blessed. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported Saint Anthony of Padua.”