The Church of the Immaculate Conception in Saint-Omer in Pas-de-Calais was destroyed by fire during the night from Sunday to Monday. The fire broke out in the sacristy at 4:18 a.m.said the mayor of the commune, François Decoster, interviewed by France Bleu Nord. The flames then spread to the side nave. The central nave was then engulfed in flames, then The bell tower and the roof were completely destroyed. Firefighters from Saint-Omer and the surrounding area intervened very quickly. By 7:30 a.m., the fire was under control.
The mayor of Saint-Omer clarifies that there is no risk for local residents of lead or asbestos pollution because the church was renovated 7 years ago but advises residents of the area to “not to open their windows today“. 34 people were evacuated calmly and welcomed at the café “le petit Saint-Pierre” located opposite the building. This morning, there was still uncertainty regarding the reception of students from two schools located near the church of the Immaculate Conception. A municipal reception is in place.
It is not yet known how the fire started. The investigation will have to determine that. The Church of the Immaculate Conception, also known as the “cathedral of the suburbs” is located north of Saint-Omer, in the rural part of the commune. The town hall renovated it in 2015 and 2018 using its own funds.
