In North Providence, Rhode Island, a distressing incident unfolded early Sunday morning when several fires were reportedly set around the Pentecostal Shiloh Gospel Temple, a church with a predominantly Black congregation. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Kevin Colantonio of North Providence, has been charged with setting these fires, marking a significant moment of concern for the local community and law enforcement agencies.

The Incident

According to US Attorney Zachary Cunha's office, the suspect is observed paying for $10 worth of gasoline, according to a purchase receipt from Cumberland Farms, and pumping the gas into a red gasoline container.
Kevin Colantonio, pictured in a surveillance video, purchasing gasoline for the church arson attacks

According to the U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island, Zachary Cunha, Kevin Colantonio has been formally charged with maliciously damaging or destroying property by means of fire or explosion. This charge comes after an emergency response team, comprising local police and firefighters, was dispatched to the church at approximately 12:12 a.m. on February 11th, following reports of attempts to set the building ablaze. Fortunately, the building was empty at the time, allowing the fires to be quickly extinguished with no injuries reported. However, the incident caused significant property damage and has raised concerns about safety and racial harmony within the community.

The arrest of Colantonio on Thursday was the result of a coordinated effort by multiple agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, North Providence Police, and the State Fire Marshal’s Office. This multi-agency investigation has been thorough, involving a review of video evidence, witness interviews, and the collection of physical evidence. The legal process is now underway, with the United States Attorney’s Office having sought a criminal complaint against Colantonio. At this stage, it remains unclear if Colantonio has obtained legal representation, and efforts to contact him for comment have been unsuccessful.

Community Response

The Shiloh Gospel Temple has been a fixture in North Providence for approximately 35 years, serving a vibrant congregation that primarily consists of Black and African American members. The fires have not only caused physical damage to the church’s property but also emotional and psychological distress among its congregation and the wider community. As the investigation continues, there is a collective hope for healing and justice, with a focus on strengthening community bonds and preventing such incidents in the future.

The incident at the Shiloh Gospel Temple serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing communities today, including the need for vigilance against acts of violence and the importance of unity in the face of adversity. As Kevin Colantonio faces the legal consequences of his actions, the community awaits further developments, hoping for a resolution that affirms the principles of justice and inclusivity.