Police believe suspect in Masterton church fires being hidden

Despite “wide-ranging inquiries”, Police are yet to locate 44-year-old Michael Kane McRae.

Six churches were targeted in the early hours of February 22 including St Patrick’s Catholic Church, the Anglican Church of the Epiphany, Masterton Baptist Church and Equippers Church Masterton. A local business was also targeted.

Three days later, Police issued a warrant to arrest McRae, whom they believed could assist with their inquiries. Detective Senior Sergeant Philip Skoglund said McRae was likely avoiding arrest and getting help to hide from Police.

“We believe McRae is still in the Wairarapa area; my message to anyone helping him evade capture is [to] come forward now, do not put yourself at further risk of prosecution.”

Anyone who sees McRae should not approach him and should call 111 immediately, Skoglund said. Police also want to hear from anyone who saw a green Ford Festiva, which was seen leaving one of the fires and was found abandoned the following day.

“We want to track the movements of the vehicle on the Saturday morning when the arsons were reported, and the day or days beforehand,” Skoglund said.

In videos posted to social media, the man pictured in Police press releases said: “Kia ora, I set fire to seven churches. Seven stars, seven candles.” Police said they were aware of the videos, and they were forming part of an investigation into the blazes.

St Patrick’s Church in Masterton is closed until further notice. All Catholic services in Masterton during Holy Week and the Easter Octave took place at the St Patrick’s School hall.

From April 29, all Masses, liturgies, devotions and events normally held in the church resumed at Chanel College in Masterton, in either the school hall or the chapel.

FULL STORY

Masterton church fires: Michael Kane McRae likely getting help evading police (By Georgina Campbell/New Zealand Herald)

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