By Message Staff
ERWINVILLE – Police are searching for the suspect who allegedly crashed a truck into the sanctuary at Erwinville Baptist Church and fled the scene of the accident earlier this month.
According to Pastor Tyler Saucier, the vehicle was traveling at 80 mph when it hit the building around 2 am on July 19, causing major damage including to the walls and foundation of the sanctuary. He estimates damage is between $50,000 and $60,000.
Saucier lives in a parsonage next to the sanctuary and heard the truck crash into the building. He said the vehicle driven was a maroon Chevrolet extended cab Z71, with significant damage to the passenger side.
Even though the sanctuary sustained damage, worship services still took place a few hours later. The church met for services in the fellowship hall, where the congregation that averages 50 for Sunday morning worship will continue to meet until the sanctuary is repaired.
Saucier said he wants the driver of the truck to know he is forgiven.
“I am more worried about giving him a second chance than making him pay,” Saucier said. “I think God can use of this to make our church realize we are more than just building and walls.
“Our worship has been great in the Sundays following the accident,” he continued. “What happened was wrong and it was a bad thing, but God will use this for his glory.”
Anyone with information about who might have driven the truck into the building should contact Brian Ducet at 225.382.5241.More
