Investigation begins in fire that destroyed Mormon church

MESA, Ariz. — An investigation has begun into a fire that destroyed an LDS church in northwestern Mesa.

The suspicious blaze burned the Lehi Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to the ground Monday.

Although agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms have begun their investigation, they say a full inquiry won't start until Sunday.

Deputy Fire Chief Mike Dunn says security is on patrol at the church site around the clock.

The building served three church congregations. In a typical week, about 3,200 church members used the building.