Arson is suspected at Minnesota temple

OAKDALE, Minn. — Authorities suspect arson in a fire at the Mormon temple in the St. Paul suburb of Oakdale.

Smoke and fire were reported in the front entry of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple shortly before 3 a.m. Wednesday. Fire Chief Jeff Anderson says it was mostly out by the time firefighters arrived.

The fire was mostly confined to the front doors, but Anderson says some light smoke got into a front room.

Church leaders estimate the damage at $25,000.

Investigators found no signs of forced entry, and authorities don't believe the case is a hate crime.

Scott Trotter, spokesman for the LDS Church in Salt Lake City, said the temple's entrance sustained minor damage from the fire. He said the temple's normal schedule of operation has not been interrupted.