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An investigation is underway after a fire was set on an eight-foot cross outside the Crossroads Christian Fellowship in Kingston. The incident occurred early Wednesday morning (July 23), according to the Kingston Police Department. Authorities reported that an "unknown person" ignited the cross, but the flames did not reach the main church building. The fire was quickly extinguished by the Kingston Fire Department.
The church, previously known as the First Baptist Church, is located on Albany Avenue. The police have not yet determined if the fire is being investigated as a hate crime. The investigation involves multiple agencies, including the Kingston Fire Department, the New York State Arson Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), as reported by Hudson Valley Post.
Police Chief Egidio Tinti has not disclosed whether the incident is considered a hate crime. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Detective Ernie Vandemark at (845) 943-5751. The investigation remains active, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.