The Case of Eric Ridenour: A Shocking Arson Attack on Douglas Churches

In a horrifying incident on May 22, 2023, Eric Ridenour, a 58-year-old man, set fire to two churches in Douglas, Arizona. These churches were iconic landmarks in the city’s historic Church Square. The motive behind this destructive act was Ridenour’s hostility towards the churches’ progressive stance on gender and LGBTQ inclusion in their leadership roles.

Church Square held a special place in the heart of the community as it housed churches from four different denominations – Southern Baptist, Presbyterian, Episcopal, and Methodist. The destruction caused by the fires was devastating, leading to the collapse of one church’s roof and severe damage to the other.

Investigations at the crime scene revealed a bottle of lighter fluid near the altar, indicating a deliberate act of arson. Surveillance footage captured a man in a blue Pontiac Aztec parking near the churches before the fire erupted. It was later discovered that the vehicle belonged to Ridenour, leading to his swift arrest.

During the trial, it became evident that Ridenour intentionally targeted Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church and the First Presbyterian Church. On July 11, 2024, he was convicted on six counts, including arson and hate crimes. United States Attorney Gary Restaino emphasized the sanctity of religious freedom in America and condemned Ridenour’s actions as a hateful attack on this cherished principle.

Ridenour now faces a possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison for his heinous acts. The sentencing is scheduled for October, marking the next chapter in this shocking case that has shaken the peaceful community of Douglas.

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