Fire Damages 100-Year-Old Church In Echo Park

ECHO PARK (CBSLA.com/AP) — The FBI, ATF, LAPD and LAFD are investigating a possible arson that damaged a house being used as a church in Echo Park Monday.

The fire at Christ Church, located on North Morton Avenue near Echo Park Avenue, began early Monday morning on the porch of the 100-year-old structure and spread to the attic, according to Fire Department spokeswoman Margaret Stewart.

Flames were quickly extinguished and most of the damage was limited to the porch of the Fore Runners.

The multi-agency House of Worship Task Force responded to conduct the investigation.

Fire officials are investigating the fire as a possible arson.

Boards went up over the main doors later Monday but pastor Linda Cruz told CBS2/KCAL9 services will go on.

"Why? Who would want to do that?" Cruz asked, offering forgiveness to those responsible.

"Don't do that. We love you though," she said, "and forgive you."

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