Video: Man allegedly attempts to light Queens church on fire

ByEyewitness News WABC logo

Monday, August 23, 2021

Man caught on camera allegedly attempting to light Queens church on fireThe man was caught on camera apparently throwing something that he lit on fire into the church in Queens.

HOLLIS, Queens (WABC) -- Police are searching for a man they say tried to light a Queens church on fire.

It happened on Saturday at St. Gerard Majella on 91st Avenue in Hollis.

The Diocese of Brooklyn released surveillance video of the incident.

Surveillance video shows a man allegedly try to light St. Gerard Majella in Hollis, Queens on fire.

The video shows a man throwing what appears to be a scarf in the church vestibule.

Then, he is seen lighting something on fire that is thrown inside.

Father Josephjude Gannon, the pastor of St. Gerard Majella, confronted the man and he eventually walked off.

"This is sad and very scary, but it could have been worse, thankfully no one was hurt and nothing was damaged. Clearly, this person has issues, whatever they are I don't know, but I hope he gets help. I will pray for him," Father Gannon said.

Anyone with information is asked to call CrimeStoppers at (800) 577-TIPS.