On 26 February, a fire destroyed the 17th century door of the church of Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers in Saumur (Maine-et-Loire, France). Around thirty firefighters and a dozen vehicles were mobilised to bring the fire under control. Although the cause of the fire is still under investigation, the authorities suspect arson and have launched an investigation.
Jackie Goulet, the mayor of Saumur, told the local press "there is very little doubt that this fire is a voluntary act." The church, classified as a Historical Monument, was currently undergoing restoration works.