Arson Destroys Everett Area Church Building

Saturday morning, October 17, 2010, we lost our church to arson. It was a lovely, small LDS church building, serving about 700-800 people since 1989.  Located in Mukilteo, WA, the building was a total loss. My husband just happened to drive past the chapel that morning, and was stunned to see the fire.

Neighbors were talking in small groups, along with firefighters, local leaders, and news media. The Mukilteo Fire Department was still working to douse hot spots as he took these images. 

A church is a community's place of gathering; a center for weekly activities, weddings, memorials, and memories. Why would anyone attempt to destroy the peace of mind of a community by setting a fire? We may never know. Thankfully, Snohomish County, Everett, and City of Mukilteo leaders are working together to catch the perpetrator.

During the early 90's, the Seattle area was targeted by an arsonist who eventually killed three people, destroyed several local homes and churches, and over $30 million dollars worth of property. He was turned into authorities by his own father, and is now serving a life sentence. I remember meeting his father. A kind and compassionate man, with a forever broken heart.

As we make plans to attend church in another building, and reorganize our family's schedule, I realize another father is about to have his heart broken. My heart goes out to that family, whoever they are. I hope our community will be able to rally around them, as they face what's surely to come.