East Providence, Rhode Island – The East Providence Police Department is investigating a break-in and vandalism incident at Saint Martha’s Church that occurred overnight, leaving the church unable to hold its scheduled Sunday morning services.
Extensive Damage Discovered Sunday Morning
Police were called to the church at approximately 8 a.m. Sunday, where officers discovered widespread damage throughout the property. According to investigators, the altar area, living quarters, and rectory were vandalized, and multiple windows were broken. Graffiti was also found inside the building, adding to the extent of the destruction.
Authorities believe the break-in occurred sometime between 8 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. Sunday, during which time the suspect or suspects caused significant interior and exterior damage.
Detectives and Major Crimes Unit Leading Investigation
The case is being handled by detectives from the department’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation along with the Major Crimes Unit. Officers are working to determine how the suspect gained entry and whether the church was specifically targeted or randomly selected.
At this stage, police have not released information about potential suspects or whether anything was stolen during the incident.
Police Ask Public for Surveillance Footage
Investigators are urging nearby residents, businesses, and drivers to review home security cameras, doorbell footage, and vehicle dashcams that may have captured activity around the church during the overnight hours.
Police are particularly interested in identifying any unfamiliar individuals or vehicles seen in the area during the estimated time of the break-in.
How to Share Information
Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact the East Providence Police directly at 401-435-7600. Tips from the public could play a critical role in identifying those responsible and preventing similar incidents in the community.
The investigation remains active, and authorities say updates will be released as more details become available.
