St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Casa Grande suffered a large fire early Friday morning. The church was unoccupied at the time the flames ignited, and no one was injured. Dave Kean, chief of the Casa Grande Fire Department said there was significant damage to the inside of the main worship area. According to the chief, early investigations indicate the fire started in the area near the west side of the building near the electronic/and music area. Chief Kean said the fire "significantly burned the South/Choir pew area. The main worship area was also damaged by heavy smoke and some fire."
The Diocese of Tucson thanks the Casa Grande police and fire departments for their swift response, in addition to assisting agencies that included Pinal County Sheriff's Office, Maricopa Fire Department, Eloy Fire Department, Gilbert Fire Department, and Gila River Fire Department.
Chief Kean said his department is receiving federal assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. He said, "We have no reason to believe that foul play was involved, but due to the high dollar loss and the fact that it is a place of worship they are assisting us."
Until further notice services at St. Anthony of Padua will be held in the parish's community center. Fr. Ariel Lustan, the pastor said he is grateful for the overwhelming show of support from the community, "Services will continue. We will not stop."
Chief Kean asks that anyone with information contact the Casa Grande Fire Department.