Maryland authorities investigating fires, vandalism at multiple Bethesda churches

By Paul Best

Two churches were set on fire and a third was vandalized in Bethesda, Maryland, this weekend, authorities said.

Around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday morning, authorities were called to North Bethesda United Methodist Church about vandalism and arson, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service spokesman Pete Piringer said.

A fire was set in several pews at Saint Jane Frances de Chantal Catholic Church. (Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, Pete Piringer)

(Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, Pete Piringer)

About 1,000 feet away, investigators also found damaged headstones and "broken wood pieces" scattered around Wildwood Baptist Church.

Then on Sunday morning, Montgomery County fire officials were called to Saint Jane Frances de Chantal Catholic Church, where several pews had been set on fire.

Damaged headstones at Wildwood Baptist Church

Headstones were damaged at a cemetery beside Wildwood Baptist Church on Saturday morning. (Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, Pete Piringer)

Authorities are investigating an arson at North Bethesda United Methodist Church. (Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, Pete Piringer)

Damage was estimated at $50,000 at the Catholic church, which is about a mile away from the other two churches that were vandalized, according to Fox 5 DC.

Anyone with information about the incidents can call the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service's arson tipline at 240-777-2263.

Paul Best is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Story tips and ideas can be sent to Paul.Best@fox.com and on Twitter: @KincaidBest.

https://www.foxnews.com/us/maryland-authorities-investigating-fires-vandalism-multiple-bethesda-churches