Officials Investigating Fire At Rectory Of Arlington Church

ARLINGTON, MA — Officials are investigating a fire in the rectory of an Arlington church that broke out early Tuesday morning.

Just before 1:30 a.m., an Arlington police officer saw smoke in the area of 22 Appleton Street, the rectory of St. Athanasius Church.

Arlington firefighters responded to the scene to find a heavy smoke condition inside the structure, which was unoccupied while under renovation. They located a smoldering fire in the basement of the building and quickly extinguished it.

“We’re asking anyone with information on this fire or how it started to share it with investigators,” said Arlington Fire Chief Kevin M. Kelley in a statement. “You can remain anonymous if you prefer.”

Anyone with information on the fire, its origin, or individuals involved is asked to call the Arson Watch Reward Program Hotline at 1-800-682-9229. The Arson Watch Reward Program is operated by the Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriters Association and offers rewards of up to $5,000 for information that solves or detects arson crimes.

Those with information may also contact the Arlington Police Department to speak with local investigators at 781-316-3910.

“There are few fire incidents more concerning than those that affect houses of worship,” State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey said in a statement. “We want the community to know that we take this fire, and any fire at a place of worship, seriously.”