Islamic Mosque Burns to the Ground in Joplin
By: KODE/KSN, Joplin, MO
Updated: August 6, 2012
The FBI is investigating after a Monday morning fire destroyed an Islamic Mosque in Joplin. It was the second fire at the house of worship in the past month.
Firefighters were called to the mosque on Black Cat Rd. around 3:30 Monday morning.
When crews arrived, the west side of the building was on fire, but it quickly spread, engulfing the entire structure in flames.
The Jasper County Sheriff's Office confirmed the fire marshal has already been called in to investigate. The FBI plans to brief reporters later today on the investigation.
Another fire, which was deemed arson, was reported at the same building July 5th but only caused minor damage.
Authorities released surveillance video of the suspect, but no arrests have been made.
Mosque members say the quick response from the fire department likely saved their building from being destroyed.
Dr. Iftikhar Ali, president of Joplin Islamic Community, says it's upsetting to their entire community when a senseless act of violence like this takes place.
