Arson Destroys Historic Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Canada After Crime Spree

Ash and rubble is all that remains of the All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church parish in Bellis after an arson fire that burned down the church on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025. Photo: edmontonjournal.com

BELLIS, Alberta — Residents are grieving the destruction of All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church, a century-old parish lost to arson following a violent crime spree on Sept. 21.

As reported by the Edmonton Journal, Smoky Lake Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said two stolen vehicles fled from a traffic stop, with one ramming a police cruiser and suspects attempting to use bear mace. Three suspects, including a youth, were arrested after fleeing on foot; one suspect remains at large. The second stolen vehicle and its occupants have not been found.

Soon after, the church was reported ablaze. Fire investigators determined an accelerant was used, and evidence from the stolen vehicle linked the suspects to the fire.

Parish secretary-treasurer Annette Flak called the loss “gut wrenching" in an interview with the Edmonton Journal, noting her 86-year-old mother’s lifelong ties to the parish. Hours before the blaze, the church had received a grant for upgrades. Only the church bell was salvaged.

A look at All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church when it was still standing. Photo: globalnews.ca

RCMP have charged Sandy Dawn Marie White, 23, and Lazare Favel, 26, both of Saddle Lake First Nation, with arson and multiple related offenses. Favel remains in custody; White was released under conditions, and both of them have upcoming court appearances.

Police continue to seek information about the suspect still at large and urge tips to RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Previously, UOJ reported that Orthodox youth camp “Ruskoka” celebrated its 25th anniversary this summer, alongside the 20th anniversary of its chapel dedicated to the Royal Passion-Bearer Tsarevich Alexei in Canada.

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