Phoenix Fire: Investigators find no credible evidence to suggest that Catholic church fire was arson

PHOENIX (FOX 10) -- Officials with the Phoenix Fire Department have provided an update into an investigation surrounding a fire that destroyed a Catholic church in North Phoenix on May 1.

According to earlier information provided by Phoenix Fire officials, over 60 firefighters battled the fire at St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Parish near 40th Street and Shea Boulevard. The incident happened at around midnight on May 1, and according to earlier statements made by Phoenix Police officials, officers who responded to the church noticed a fire had started in the area of the sanctuary.

The fire, according to earlier reports, spread to the attic and was burning the roof of the church. Fire crews used a defensive strategy to fight the fire and are working to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings.

In a statement released Thursday, Phoenix Fire Captain Jake Van Hook said while an investigation into the origin and cause of the fire is not complete, investigators have not discovered any credible evidence that would suggest arson, and have found compelling indicators that the fire's origin may be due to accidental causes.

Cpt. Van Hook said the investigation may take several more days or weeks to complete.