Two fires break out at church in Beaussais-sur-Mer

On Monday afternoon, two separate fires broke out at the church in Ploubalay, part of Beaussais-sur-Mer in France’s Côtes-d’Armor department.

One fire burned a plastic display near the entrance, while another started near the choir among leaflets.

Thick black smoke filled the church, and a parishioner was taken to hospital after inhaling smoke.

Firefighters ventilated the building and inspected its bell tower; officials said the entrance door was among the areas damaged.

Gendarmes opened an investigation into suspected arson and questioned witnesses.

The church will remain closed while it is thoroughly cleaned.