CCTV images released in Church arson investigation

We are looking for the public’s help to identify a man who was believed to have information about an arson that occurred at southeast Calgary church earlier this year.

On Sunday, July 4, 2021, at approximately 7:20 p.m., first responders were called after a witness observed flames coming from the Calgary Vietnamese Alliance Church, also known as the House of Prayer Alliance Church, located in the 4900 block of Forego Avenue S.E. Members of the Calgary Fire Department responded and quickly extinguished the fire, however the building suffered significant damage.

The Calgary Police Service Arson Unit took over the investigation and explored possible connections between the fire and other incidents of church vandalism in the city. However, we have since determined that this incident was unrelated to the confirmation of unmarked graves at residential schools.

Investigators have spoken with several witnesses and reviewed CCTV from the area and are now looking for the public’s help to identify a man who may have information about the fire. Photos of the man is available on The City of Calgary Newsroom.

The man is described as being unshaven with tattoos on his hands, and was wearing a black jacket, black pants and grey fingerless gloves.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477

TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org

APP: P3 Tips

Case #21254773/3940