Yaphank, NY - December 8th, 2013 - Suffolk County Police Arson Section detectives are investigating a fire that damaged a Yaphank church this morning.
Police responded to a fire at the Yaphank Presbyterian Church, located at 65 Main Street, at 2:02 a.m. after a 911 caller reported a fire. The investigation into the fire has been hindered due to the extensive damage to the church but the cause of the fire has been deemed non-criminal.
Graffiti found on an exterior wall of the church is not related to the fire. The graffiti had been present for at least two days and similar graffiti was found on two other nearby buildings in Yaphank.
The historic church was built in 1851 and also served as a community center and refuge for residents seeking shelter.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Arson Section at 631-852-6150 or call anonymously to Suffolk County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.
Incident: Yaphank Church Damaged by Fire
Location: 65 Main Street, Yaphank
Date/Time: Sunday, December 8, 2013 at 2:02 a.m.