It will be alleged about 4.15am, the man forced entry into the church by breaking a window. It will be further alleged he set fire to books inside the church. The fire quickly spread, causing in excess of $500,000 worth of damage to the church.
The man left the church and allegedly forced entry into a demountable building located on church grounds which is used as a community creche. It will also be alleged he stole property from the building prior to setting fire to furniture in the demountable, causing approximately $50,000 worth of damage.
The 23-year-old man from Carey Park has been charged with:
• Two counts of Criminal Damage by Fire;
• Two counts of Burglary and commit on a place; and
• One count of Stealing.
He is due to appear before the Bunbury Magistrates Court today, 20 February 2025.
The investigation is ongoing and detectives urge anyone with any information or vision relating to this incident, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestopperswa.com.au
