Calgary, AB,
25
May
2023
|
16:25
America/Denver

Police ask for assistance to identify suspect in church fire

We are asking for the public’s assistance to identify a man believed to be responsible for setting a fire and assaulting two men at the St. Mary’s Cathedral last week.

On Friday, May 19, 2023, we were called at approximately 2:30 a.m., for reports of a deliberately set fire at the St. Mary’s Cathedral located at 219 17 Avenue S.W. After two staff members heard a commotion outside, they opened a door to the back of the church when a man aggressively charged at them. The two men were able to close the door and get to safety while the man continued to attempt to gain entry into the church. The men called 9-1-1 and the fire was extinguished upon the Calgary Fire Department’s arrival.

The man is described as approximately 35 to 45 years old, with a bald or shaved head, approximately 6’ tall and 180 pounds.

Photos of the man are available on the City of Calgary Newsroom.

Our Hate Crime Prevention Team is investigating to determine if hate motivation is a factor.

Anyone with information about this incident 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

CA23209459/4757