Plano, Texas authorities are conducting an investigation into what they describe as “an intentionally set fire” at the Community Unitarian Universalist Church. The incident occurred on Sunday and comes only weeks after the church became the subject of criticism in a video posted by an anti-LGBTQ Christian YouTuber.
Fire Promptly Extinguished, No Injuries Reported
The blaze was discovered by a passerby who noticed flames around the front door of the church. Thankfully, the Plano Fire-Rescue team acted swiftly, extinguishing the fire before it caused any injuries or significant damage. Both the fire department and the city’s police department are involved in the criminal investigation, as reported by NBC News.
Church Attributes Incident to “Firebomb Attack”
The targeted church released a statement on its Facebook page, stating that the fire was the result of a “firebomb attack.” According to their account, an incendiary device with a chemical accelerant was thrown or placed at the front doors of the main church building. This troubling incident follows an earlier intrusion by a hate group, which the church has been addressing with the assistance of the Plano Police Department.
Anti-LGBTQ YouTuber’s Provocative Video
The church’s statement referred to a video posted by Bo Alford, also known as “bodittle” on social media. Along with fellow YouTuber Cassady Campbell and another individual, Alford filmed a visit to the Plano church, posing as LGBTQ individuals to “test” the congregation’s beliefs and expose what they referred to as “false teachers.” The video, titled “We acted LGBT at LGBT Church,” garnered over 200,000 views.
Investigation Ongoing, No Official Hate Crime Confirmation
Despite the timing, authorities have not linked Alford’s visit and video to the subsequent fire at the church. The Plano police, cautious in their approach, have refrained from confirming the incident as a hate crime for now, stating that the investigation is still ongoing.
As the community awaits further updates from the authorities, the incident raises concerns about the potential impact of provocative content on social media platforms and its relation to real-world consequences for targeted communities.