GATE CITY, Va. (WJHL) — Authorities have apprehended a suspect accused of trying to ignite a blaze at a local church in Gate City.
The Gate City Police Department (GCPD) announced in a press release that officers were dispatched to the First Apostolic Church located on Jackson Street on June 13. Officials reported that there was evident “damage indicative of an attempted arson at the church.”
The police confirmed that the church was empty during the alleged arson attempt, and fortunately, no one sustained injuries.
Following thorough investigations, James Scottie Davis, a resident of Gate City, was arrested on June 19.
Davis was charged with arson of an unoccupied dwelling and vandalism.
As of Tuesday, Davis was being held at the Duffield Regional Jail on a $5,000 bond.
The GCPD stated in the release that the incident remains under investigation and encouraged anyone with information on the matter to contact police.
“The Gate City Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all places of worship and the community as a whole,” the release states. “We encourage anyone with additional information related to this case or any suspicious activity to contact the department.”