Man charged with arson for fire at St. Raphael Cathedral in Madison

Published: 2005-03-23

MADISON, Wis. (CNS) -- The March 14 fire at St. Raphael Cathedral in Madison was the result of arson, according to local officials. Fire Chief Debra Amesqua announced the arson charges during a March 18 press conference. Police apprehended 41-year-old William J. Connell and charged him with arson, burglary and bail jumping at an initial appearance in Dane County Circuit Court March 18. "It was me," Connell allegedly told a Madison police officer March 15 about setting the fire. The fire destroyed much of the cathedral's roof, which collapsed into the church. The cathedral proper also was severely damaged. "I broke into the church with a crowbar and stole a bottle of wine and messed around with some stuff," Connell reportedly said.

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