Suspect arrested for arson in burning of historic Catholic church in New Brunswick, Canada

A man is in police custody on charges of arson after a historic church in the Canadian province of New Brunswick burned to the ground.

Saint-Simon Catholic Church near the town of Caraquet was reduced to ashes and was considered a “total loss,” the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said on Aug. 25.

The fire, which consumed the church on Aug. 24, had been “intentionally set,” according to authorities. Police said in a news release that they arrested 68-year-old Gilles Mallet on suspicion of starting the blaze.

Bystanders watch as Saint-Simon Catholic Church burns in New Brunswick, Canada, on Aug. 24, 2026. Police later arrested a 68-year-old man in connection with the fire. | Credit: Yvonne Chiasson

In a Facebook post , meanwhile, the town of Caraquet called the parish “a true emblem of our heritage.”

“Far more than just a building, this church held a significant place in our region’s collective memory and cultural life,” the town’s post said.

The parish “welcomed generations of families, hosted gatherings and performances, and was the setting for countless moments that brought our community to life.”

Monica Albert Légère, who lives near the parish, echoed those…