Source: Chron

Authorities have upgraded the investigation of a Christmas Day fire at a southwest Houston mosque to “incendiary” and cited multiple points of origin in the two-alarm blaze as suspicious.

“As part of the investigative process, evidence is being collected and analyzed; and interviews are being conducted,” the Houston Fire Department said in a release Saturday. “We want to reassure the public that we will conduct a complete and thorough investigation.”

Though the fire department’s arson bureau is leading the investigation, HFD spokesman Ruy Lozano said, adding that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms is assisting. “When we’re looking at different occupancy types, such a religious facilities, it’s good to bring them in as a partner.”

Community leaders called for a throurough investigation.

“Attacking a place of worship is a despicable act,” U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee said. “I will continue to closely monitor the possible criminal investigation and the safety of the members of the Mosque. Our faith in humanity will not be intimidated and we stand together against any form of violence towards the innocent.”

Because of damage, members of the mosque held services Saturday in an empty storefront in the same strip center with permission from the landlord.

“Everything is damaged inside, except the copies of the Qur’an, which were miraculously not damaged,” said MJ Khan, president of the Islamic Society of Greater Houston, which operates the mosque. “We got them out last night.”

He urged community members not to speculate about the cause of the fire. “Of course, there is sadness, there is anxiety,” he said. “When people don’t know, there are all kinds of concerns.” But he said he took the opportunity at afternoon services Saturday to reassure the community.

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