A fire broke out on Good Friday at the Papal Cross in Warsaw, prompting police investigation and sparking theories, including one of intentional arson by Antoni Macierewicz.
Papal Cross Fire in Warsaw
A fire occurred on Good Friday before St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe Church on Rzymowskiego Street in Warsaw, damaging the cross standing before the church. Police report a probable cause of the fire was ignition from nearby candles, but haven’t ruled out third-party involvement.
Macierewicz’s Arson Theory
Antoni Macierewicz has put forward a theory regarding the fire, claiming it was a deliberate act of arson. He posted his analysis on X (formerly Twitter), citing evidence suggesting intentional ignition.
Evidence of Arson Presented
Macierewicz stated that analysis of the fire traces indicates intentional arson, suggesting a flammable liquid was introduced into the structure and ignited. He pointed to uniform charring of the lower wall elements and flame traces at the base, while candles remained untouched.
Kierwiński’s Response
Marcin Kierwiński, the Minister of Interior and Administration, responded to Macierewicz’s claims, referring to him as the “apostle of Smolensk lies” and criticizing the potential for exploitation by “charlatans,” referencing the inquiry into the Smolensk disaster.
Historical Significance of the Papal Cross
The Papal Cross commemorates the first mass celebrated in Poland after John Paul II assumed the papacy on June 2, 1979, held at Victory Square (now Marshal Józef Piłsudski Square). It was erected in front of the parish after the church’s consecration in 1999.
