Overview
- Fire crews responded around 9:15 p.m. Monday and battled the blaze for nearly three hours at Leeton United Methodist Church in Leeton.
- State and local investigators quickly determined the fire was intentionally set, launching a multi-agency arson probe.
- Authorities say two minors are suspected, with the matter referred for juvenile review and no charges announced.
- The 1896 sanctuary sustained significant damage but remains standing, with no injuries reported and some items recovered.
- Officials urged tips to the Missouri Arson Hotline or Crime Stoppers, as the congregation organized a prayer vigil and launched a GoFundMe to support rebuilding.