7 Fires Overnight in Mississippi Investigated as Arson
2022.11.08 14:15
7 Fires Overnight in Mississippi Investigated as Arson
By Tiffany Smith
Budrigannews.com – Officials told local media that seven fires broke out overnight at two churches, a gas station, and four other buildings near Jackson State University in Mississippi, prompting an investigation into arson.
The most destructive of the seven fires near the historically Black college destroyed Epiphany Church, according to video. ABC affiliate WAPT reported that no injuries had been reported.
According to Assistant Chief Patrick Armon, the Jackson Fire Department began receiving calls around 2.45 a.m., according to WAPT. Reuters inquires were not immediately answered by the Jackson Fire Department.
By early Tuesday morning, hours before voting began in Mississippi and other states for congressional seats and other public offices, all fires had been put out.
It was not clear if the fires had anything to do with the elections, which are taking place in a year when officials have warned that candidates and voters could be attacked or intimidated.
The NAACP, a civil rights organization, shared a picture of the burning Epiphany Church and wrote, ” We are keeping a close eye on the situation. There is no fear. No distractions. Vote now!”
The fires were described as “cowardly actions” by Democratic candidate Shuwaski Young for the congressional district that includes Jackson.
He stated in a statement, “Several churches were burned this morning in Jackson, Mississippi on Election Day.”
“When people are fighting for their right to vote and live peacefully as Americans and Mississippians, these cowardly actions invoke previous acts of terrorism. We will not be intimidated or discouraged.”
According to 16 WAPT News, all polling places were open as usual despite the fires.
