September 19, 2019

FBI Offers Reward of up to $5,000 for Information on the Multiple Catholic Church Arsons in Westside El Paso

The FBI’s El Paso Field Office, El Paso Fire Marshal’s Office, El Paso Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the person(s) responsible for the May 7, May 13, and June 15 arsons at St. Matthew Catholic Church, St. Patrick Cathedral, and St. Jude Catholic Church.

FBI El Paso is announcing a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for these crimes. In total, a reward of $15,000 is now being offered.

The unknown perpetrator(s) of these crimes are believed to have used an incendiary device in an attempt to set fire to three Westside Catholic churches. Each church sustained damage caused from these devices. Thankfully, to date no one has been injured.

Keeping everyone safe is our shared and number one priority.

We are counting on assistance from members of the community to keep our city safe. We are asking everyone to please remain vigilant for suspicious or unusual activity to include events and persons around you. To date, we have received numerous tips regarding this investigation and multiple law enforcement agencies are involved. Every lead will be thoroughly investigated. Regardless of how insignificant you think your information might be, we strongly encourage you to come forward and welcome your information and assistance. You do have the option to remain anonymous when providing assistance to this investigation.

Anyone with information should contact the FBI's El Paso Field Office at (915) 832-5000 or Crime Stoppers of El Paso at (915) 566-TIPS (8477). Tips may also be reported anonymously at tips.fbi.gov or at crimestoppersofelpaso.org. You may also contact your local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.