Police Continuing to Investigate Burglary at State College Church

State College police on Friday renewed their call for the public’s assistance in the investigation of a break-in and vandalism at a borough church.

A board member of Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Centre County, 780 Waupelani Drive Extension, discovered on Sunday afternoon that someone had broken in by smashing the window of a religious education classroom. Once inside, they attempted to start a fire on the floor, causing additional minor damage.

Rev. Carol Thomas Cissel, minister of the church, said the rest of the building, including the sanctuary, was unharmed. UUFCC’s building has been closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic and services are being conducted online through May.

State College police said in a news release that they have sent several pieces of evidence to the Pennsylvania State Police crime lab “in an attempt to gain identifying information on the actor(s) who broke a window and entered the building.”

Anyone with information, including any suspicious activity or suspicious individuals seen around the building over the past several weeks, is asked to contact the State College Police Department at (814) 234-7150, by email or by submitting an anonymous tip through the department’s website.

UUFC’s board members said in a statement on Monday that they are “deeply saddened” by the incident.

“We continue to believe in the goodwill of our neighbors and the kindness of the State College community. Our fellowship is a steady beacon of light for all – for those on the margins, for those who are considered the other, for everyone hoping, wishing, and praying for justice and desiring a better world,” the statement said. “That will not change.”