Anti-Gay Hate Group Graffiti Discovered In Church Fire

By: Jack MacNamara, Staff Writer

VALE, N.C. — Pastor of the Providence Baptist Church which was hit by a mysterious fire on early Monday morning, told WBTV affiliate that he is concerned that this fire could have been intentionally set.

Luckily no one was injured in the blaze which started around 2 a.m. at the Providence Baptist Church located at 7587 Providence Church Road in Vale, in Catawba County.

Pastor is concerned that this fire might have been intentionally set. They found this vandalism behind the church @WBTV_News pic.twitter.com/QNLA5SFcrF

— Caroline Hicks WBTV (@CarolineHicksTV) November 13, 2017

The church pastor added that vandalism behind the building is sparking fears that the fire was deliberately set by vandals who may have also spray-painted graffiti readring “Anti-Gay Hate Group.” Arson investigators with the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the incident.

RELATED: LGBT Politics | Hate Crimes

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Paul Goldberg

Senior Correspondent at JRL CHARTS NETWORK

Paul Goldberg has been a senior editor at JRL CHARTS for more than 18 years, delivering in-depth coverage of LGBTQ politics, civil rights, and public policy across the United States, Europe, and Asia. His reporting focuses on federal court rulings, legislative developments, international human rights issues, and government actions impacting LGBTQ communities worldwide. With nearly two decades of experience, Goldberg is recognized for his balanced analysis, investigative insight, and commitment to accurate, fact-based journalism that informs readers on the political forces shaping equality and justice.

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