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Fire crews from several area departments were dispatched at approximately 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 12, to the Diyanet Mosque on Middletown Road, when a fire broke out, sending smoke billowing for several blocks.
The fire reportedly started on the first floor before quickly extending to the second, causing extensive damage. Firefighters knocked down the flames within an hour, though they remained at the scene for several hours to check on any potential hot spots or flare-ups.
The investigation into the fire is ongoing, but it is being treated as arson, officials said. There is evidence that the fire was set intentionally, according to New Have Fire Chief John Alston, though no specifics have been provided. No injuries were reported, including a man who was inside the mosque when the fire broke out near the entrance of the building.
A $2,500 cash reward has been offered for information in relation to the case by law enforcement. The Connecticut Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations is also offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of a potential arsonist.
Because it’s a house of worship, fire officials said they are coordinating their investigation with the Connecticut State Police to determine whether there was anything suspicious in nature regarding the fire.
Several religious artifacts were salvaged from the mosque - which was under construction - though others suffered damage. It is unclear what the future holds for the mosque, which suffered significant damage.
“A hate-fueled attack on a religious institution – any religion – is disgusting and appalling,” Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont posted on Twitter. “There is no place for it in our state or our nation. We will work w/ our local counterparts in #NewHaven to assist in the investigation and ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
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