Augusta Woman Arrested for Church Arson
Authorities have detained a 67-year-old suspect accused of setting fires at a local church on Parrish Road.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Property Crime
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Katherine Aldridge was arrested Tuesday in connection with a fire at the Vineyard Church of Augusta. Investigators say the suspect allegedly placed bundles of firewood around the perimeter of the 3126 Parrish Road building.
Why it matters
The incident forced the temporary cancellation of the church food pantry, which serves hundreds of local residents each week. The church is working to resume its community assistance programs following the damage.
Katherine Aldridge is currently held without bond at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center following her arrest. She faces charges of first-degree arson for the fires discovered on the church property.
The players
Katherine Aldridge
She is a 67-year-old individual currently in custody at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.
Vineyard Church of Augusta
This is a local religious institution located at 3126 Parrish Road that hosts regular community food pantry sessions.
The details
Staff discovered smoke in the worship center and smoldering wood piles after the suspect allegedly arranged fuel 10 to 15 feet from the structure. Aldridge reportedly admitted to setting the fires, claiming the pastor was attempting to harm her.
Timeline
Several weeks ago church leadership asked the suspect not to return.
Monday morning the fires were discovered at the church.
Tuesday Katherine Aldridge was arrested.
Wednesday morning the suspect remained in custody.
Legal Context
This case highlights the enforcement of property crime statutes regarding houses of worship in the region. The incident follows a pattern set by the 2026 local fire safety ordinances regarding exterior combustible materials.
Local families who rely on the pantry should prepare for the disruption of services until the planned reopening next week. Residents near Parrish Road may see a continued presence of investigators while the site remains secured.
The takeaway
Maintaining clear perimeters around community buildings can help prevent unauthorized access to exterior spaces. Organizations should continue to enforce restricted access policies for individuals displaying disruptive behavior.
What happens next
The church food pantry is scheduled to reopen to the community next Monday.
Further reading
Learn more about local safety concerns in the Property Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Augusta Press.
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