AUSTIN — KVUE has learned that a church vandalism case from this weekend will be handed over to the Austin Police Department’s Gang Unit.
An APD lieutenant confirmed with KVUE Wednesday that detectives believe members of three gangs worked together to demolish and destroy the inside of St. John Tabernacle on Blessing Avenue.
The break-in and vandalism is believed to have happened sometime between Sunday night and Monday morning.
“It has been devastating. We’ve been heartbroken, but we have hope. Our hope and our trust is in God, and we know that God will work these things out,” said Pastor Emmanuel Limuel.
Austin company Dyezz Surveillance Security is now donating a full surveillance and alarm system to St. John Tabernacle.
“Really the lesson here is never underestimate your surroundings. No matter how good or how bad the area is you live in, always be wary of the things going on around you and the things that you don’t think about. That’s what ends up getting you in the end,” said Casey Ellison, vice president of Dyezz Surveillance.
The church is currently trying to organize a community-wide cleanup day.
“We’re so grateful for the love and the concern that the community has given us, and we certainly do appreciate that. We certainly say thank you to the community,” said Pastor Limuel.
A prayer vigil is planned on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at St. John Tabernacle, 7501 Blessing Avenue. The community is invited.
This article was originally run on KVUE in 2014.