x
Breaking News
More () »

Man arrested in Byron church arson, police say

They say the man was arrested in Columbia County and is being transported back to Peach County.

BYRON, Ga. — A man has been arrested for intentionally starting a fire at a church in Byron on Tuesday night, according to a press release from the Byron Police Department.

They say Luke Westfield was taken into custody in Columbia County for allegedly setting at least two fires at Byron United Methodist Church on West Heritage Street.

Police Chief Wesley Cannon told 13WMAZ that one of his officers was on patrol Tuesday night when they smelled fire at around 11:45 p.m., which they eventually tracked down to the church. 

While a fire was set in the sanctuary pulpit, it had burned itself out. But when the officer and Byron Fire arrived, Cannon says the office building was engulfed.

However, they say the investigation into the arson is still ongoing. 

If you have any information, the Byron Police Department asks you to call the Byron Police Department at 478-956-2493 or the Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

RELATED: After church damaged by arsonist, Byron pastor says their community is stronger than the crime

RELATED: Byron Police investigating an arson fire at a church

RELATED: Suspect in Crawford County killing dies after killing self during standoff, sheriff says

RELATED: How does contraband get into Georgia prisons? A federal indictment helps paint a picture

13WMAZ+

Get more news and information from 13WMAZ by downloading our 13WMAZ+ app on our Roku and Amazon Fire Stick devices.

This allows you to watch more 13WMAZ on-demand and access your favorite 13WMAZ shows like Central Georgia Focus and our Weather Impact Alert special.

 

Before You Leave, Check This Out