A woman has been charged in the arson attack reported at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
The shrine, located in Des Plaines, Illinois, suffered over $78,000 in damage caused by an intentional fire set on the premises.
Virginia Roque-Fermin, 41, is facing felony charges in the arson case.
Police say they found Roque-Fermin nearby after arriving on the scene. Officers claim the woman was quickly walking away from the scene with soot visible on her clothing.
PHILADELPHIA POLICE FIND ’18-INCH’ PIPE BOMB BEHIND CATHOLIC CHURCH
Hundreds of horsemen and horsewomen arrive to pay their respects, throw out a rose and pray to Our Lady of Guadalupe at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Des Plaines, Illinois. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
“Surveillance footage depicts Roque-Fermin carrying objects such as statues, buckets, chairs, and planter pots toward the cave/grotto area of the shrine,” the police statement continued.
It added, “She then starts a fire and continues to carry surrounding objects towards the fire to stoke the flames. Total damage was estimated to be over $78,000.”
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“Pilgrims visit for many reasons: some seek hope, others express gratitude; however, all come with prayers and express love to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” the shrine’s statement added.
The archdiocese is soliciting donations from local Catholics to repair the damage and return the shrine to operation.