Saint-Simon Church destroyed by suspected arson in Canada

A 68-year-old man, Gilles Mallet, has been taken into police custody following the suspected arson of the historic Saint-Simon Catholic Church in New Brunswick, Canada. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported that the fire, which occurred on Monday, was “intentionally set” and resulted in the total destruction of the building.

The church, located near the town of Caraquet, was described by local officials as a “true landmark of our cultural heritage” and a central part of the community’s collective memory. Bishop Michel Proulx expressed profound sadness over the loss, stating the event has plunged the community into deep mourning.

Local residents have noted the church served as a vital social hub for generations. While some online commentary attempted to attribute the fire to immigrants, local residents have dismissed these claims, describing the local immigrant population as friendly and noting that no such accusations have been raised within the Saint-Simon community.