Fire Damages Historic 19th-Century Church in France, Elon Musk Questions Arson

Saint-Omer: A historic 19th-century church in the French town of Saint-Omer was damaged by a fire early this morning, according to reports. Though no one was hurt in the incident, it took more than 90 firefighters to contain the flames. Elon Musk reshared news of the fire, questioning if it was arson.

According to a report by AFP, the steeple of the church was heavily damaged. The steeple, along with the bell tower, collapsed because of the blaze, the report said, citing officials.

"Is this definitely arson?" Musk wrote, sharing a video of the church in flames.

The Church of the Immaculate Conception in Saint-Omer, France, was unveiled in 1859. It is known for its neo-Gothic architecture, with intricate design features soaring spires, detailed stone carvings and stained glass windows. The church of the immaculate conception, of great historical value in france, was inaugurated in 1859, survived the two world wars and is an architectural landmark in the region. 

"My thoughts are with the Catholics and the people of Saint-Omer," Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said on X. "An investigation is under way to determine the exact cause of the fire."