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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.

KPCC Archive

Reward offered for information in Antelope Valley church fires

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The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors offered a $20,000 reward today for information leading to the capture and conviction of whoever firebombed two churches in the Antelope Valley.

On Aug. 25, the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Palmdale and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Lancaster were both the target of arson fires.

The Palmdale church at 18512 E. Avenue Q was completely destroyed, at a loss of $50,000, according to Supervisor Michael Antonovich, who proposed the reward.

The Mormon church, located about five miles away at 41535 170th St., sustained $30,000 in damage in two separate blazes.

Sheriff's arson investigators said both blazes were started with Molotov cocktails.

Anyone with information about the arson fires was asked to call sheriff's Sgts. Derek Yoshino or Ray Walker at (323) 881-7500.

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