DOUGLAS, Ariz. (KGUN) — St. Paul’s Church a day after two historic churches were damaged by fire. Stephen Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church – In Douglas, many expressed disbelief.

This afternoon, I spoke with Douglas Mayor Donald Huesch about the state of the area after the church fire and the ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire.

“Pat, let me tell you, at this point it’s certainly suspicious, because it happened in the church next door, and in a different place.”

Mayor Huesch updated me during a call regarding a fire, or an investigation into a fire, that severely damaged two nearby churches along D Avenue in Douglas.

“ATF is already [Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives] “We’re going from there until we get the results of their investigation,” Huesch said.

Huesch said his community is dealing with the possible loss of two churches while the investigation continues.

“We are all heartbroken here.”

Huesch said Monday’s church fire occurred in an area of ​​town known as ‘Church Square’. There is a church on every corner of that square block.

Google Earth | Kugun9

“Not only does it speak to our fidelity to God, but having so many different churches in our community speaks to our diversity as well.”

Husch said it was a tragic event for the city of Douglas, but the town has banded together to help the two churches in times of need.

Kugun 9

“They are very, very hurt, but they are also very resilient. We are already talking about how we can rebuild.”

Huesch said he was particularly saddened by the loss of several irreplaceable stained glass windows.

The ATF confirmed to KGUN 9 that it is supporting the Douglas Fire investigation.