Illinois Man Faces Arson Charges After Chapel Fire in Crown Point

URGENT UPDATE: A man from Hoffman Estates, Illinois, has been accused of intentionally setting fire to a chapel outside a Crown Point church, causing over $30,000 in damage. Tyler Jacob Cyr, aged 24, is facing serious charges including two level 4 felony counts of arson and two counts of criminal mischief.

The fire erupted at the Saints Peter and Paul Macedonian Orthodox Church around 2:24 a.m. on October 22, 2023. Crown Point police and fire departments swiftly responded to the scene, where the small prayer chapel was found engulfed in flames. The Crown Point Fire Department managed to extinguish the blaze, but the damage was substantial, with estimates indicating over $30,000 in repairs needed.

Authorities have confirmed that the fire was intentionally set, classifying it as an act of arson. Following a thorough investigation, police obtained video footage from a church member, Stevco Simakovski, which helped identify Cyr and his vehicle, a black Honda Civic, along with its license plate.

The investigation revealed that this incident is not isolated; police are also looking into three additional cases of theft and criminal mischief involving the chapel, with the first incident recorded on September 23.

An active warrant for Cyr’s arrest has been issued, as he remains at large. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any information to the Crown Point Police Department.

This developing story highlights ongoing concerns about safety and vandalism in the area, prompting discussions among local residents about the impact of such crimes on community sanctuaries. More updates are expected as authorities continue their investigation into Cyr’s activities and the chapel’s recent troubles.

Stay tuned for further developments on this urgent situation.