Youths Suspected of Torching Historic Church in Leeton, MO
An unspecified number of juveniles are believed to have started a fire that heavily damaged a 129-year-old church Monday night in the small community of Leeton in southeast Johnson County, western Missouri, according to authorities.
The Johnson County, Missouri, Sheriff’s Office announced on Facebook Tuesday that during the investigation into the fire at the Leeton United Methodist Church, “juveniles have been identified as having committed the arson.”
The sheriff’s office said that because of Missouri law and the ages of the suspects, further information regarding their identities could not be released. The case has been referred on to the Johnson County Juvenile Office. A spokesman with the sheriff’s office could not be immediately reached Wednesday afternoon for comment on the number and age range of the youths involved.
Jenay Barker, chief juvenile officer for Missouri’s 17th Circuit Juvenile Office, which provides services both Cass and Johnson counties, could not immediately respond to questions about the case.
Capt. Joe Jennings, public information officer for the Johnson County Fire Protection District, said that while they were made aware that juveniles have been identified in connection with the fire, he did not have further details on the suspects involved.
The fire was determined to have been intentionally set, prompting a joint arson investigation led by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office. The Johnson County Fire Protection District, Leeton Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and the Johnson County Fire Investigation Unit assisted in the investigation.
“This investigation moved forward quickly thanks to the expertise and cooperation of all involved,” Fire Chief Larry Jennings said in a news release. “The Fire Marshal’s Office and our local law enforcement partners have worked closely together throughout this process, and we’re grateful for the professionalism shown by everyone working to find answers.”
Although the fire caused significant damage to the Leeton United Methodist Church, it remained standing. Firefighters preserved several items from inside the historic structure, which was built in 1896.
In a post on Facebook Monday evening, the church said it was grateful that no one was injured and extended its thanks to everyone who responded to the fire. The church said it was also grateful that the church still stands and some meaningful items were saved.
“This news is heartbreaking,” the church said on Facebook,“ the church said. “Our church has stood at the heart of Leeton since 1896, serving as a place of worship, community, and history for generations. We are devastated, but we are not without hope. Our faith and our community have always been stronger than any building.”
The church asked for continued prayers for its congregation and healing in the community as it rebuilds.
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