Suspects Finally Charged For August Fire At St. Joseph’s Church

Well, it may have taken a little while, but better late than never. Justice once again triumphs for the Pittsfield Police Department!

As many of you may remember, back in early August, a fire that was later determined to be intentionally set, burned the south side door of St. Joseph's Church on North Street in Pittsfield.

According to a media statement from the Pittsfield Police Department, on August 4, at approximately 3:30 a.m., a Pittsfield patrol officer noticed the fire. The officer requested a response from the Pittsfield Fire Department. It was readily apparent that the fire had been intentionally set. PFD was quickly able to extinguish the fire but the door sustained significant burn marks on both the interior and exterior sides.

Pittsfield police say it was through a determined investigative effort that led to an arrest of two men. The two suspects, identified as 53-year-old Michael Innis and 34-year-old Brock Randolph, were arrested and charged with one count of Burning A Building. Officials say that additional charges may be forthcoming.

The Pittsfield Police Department also stated that although both men currently reside in Pittsfield, each man has ties with the eastern part of the state.

If you, or someone you know, happened to witness the actual incident, or wish to provide additional information, you are asked to please contact the lead investigator, Detective Kim Bertelli-Hunt, at 413-448-9700 x532.