Burned Crosses At Sylmar Church Being Investigated As Possible Hate Crime

The burning of three crosses on the grounds of Sylmar Christian Fellowship Church Thursday morning is being investigated as arson-hate crime by the Los Angeles Police Department. The church has a predominantly Black congregation.

The backstory

The fire was reported about 4:30 a.m. by a neighbor who was driving by the church, according to an LAPD account. They immediately called the authorities.

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The Los Angeles Fire Department arson investigators found that an accelerant was used to set the crosses on fire, according to an email from LAPD officials. LAPD investigators also said "there is no indication that this Arson Hate-Crime is related to any arson or hate crime series."

How the pastor reacted

Pastor Pierre Howard was on a Zoom meeting when a co-worker sent him a text of media reports about the fire. Howard says he was disappointed that this happened at his church, but now he's made his peace with it.

" It's only temporary. No life was lost. God is still great, and life goes on. We'll be fine,” he said. Since news of the incident has spread, Howard says the community has reached out showing their support.

What's next

The church had three crosses outside and all three were smoldering when the fire department arrived. Howard says they are going to be repaired and solidified. In the meantime, no church services have been canceled and weekly Bible Study took place as scheduled Thursday.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Authorities are asking the community for any additional information that could help further the investigation. Any tips can be submitted here or call 213-486-6270.