Teen Formally Charged With Arson In Smithfield Church Fire

On Friday, a Smithfield teen was formally charged with setting a fire that destroyed Whitley Memorial United Methodist Church on Sunday. Alvin Lee Parrish, 17, has been in custody since Sunday morning. He was originally charged by Smithfield police detectives with breaking into the church and a nearby convenience store, stealing three cases of beer. After the arson charges were filed, police announced they believe Parrish set the fire in the back of the sanctuary, near the office area, with materials that were readily available. Bail for Parrish was also increased to $140,000.