Arizona Church Fire Deemed ‘Suspicious’ As Abortion Amendment Vote Approaches

A fire broke out at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Arizona early Friday morning, resulting in severe damage to the historic sanctuary. Authorities have classified the fire as “suspicious in nature” and are investigating any possible connections to recent statewide discussions on Proposition 139, an amendment that would secure abortion access up until birth.

Father Ariel Luston, the church’s priest, received an urgent call about the fire and found the sanctuary in ruins. The blaze destroyed pews, shattered stained glass, and left the church with significant smoke damage. “We will rise from the ashes,” Luston told parishioners. He has been working with local authorities and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) as they investigate the incident.

Casa Grande Fire Department fire marshal Frank Ricci confirmed that the ATF is involved due to the church’s standing as a place of worship and its importance to the community. Ricci added that they are treating the incident as a potential crime, noting that “no theories are being ruled out at this time.” Investigators are awaiting analysis of evidence from the scene to determine the cause.

St. Anthony of Padua has taken a vocal stance against Proposition 139, sharing posts and statements on social media urging parishioners to vote against the amendment. Arizona’s bishops have also issued statements highlighting their concerns about the proposition, which they argue could strip the state’s ability to regulate abortion and bypass parental consent for minors seeking the procedure.

The national organization CatholicVote has raised concerns over rising violence targeting Catholic institutions and pro-life centers, especially in states considering abortion measures. Tommy Valentine, director of CatholicVote’s Catholic Accountability Project, urged swift action, stating, “There’s a strong correlation between pro-abortion violence and states with abortion on the ballot.”

As Arizona approaches its vote on Proposition 139, many in the Catholic community are watching the investigation closely. St. Anthony’s parish remains hopeful, committed to rebuilding with the support of the local and Christian communities.