MILL VALLEY, Calif. (Diya TV) — Police in Mill Valley arrested a 29-year-old man late Tuesday after he allegedly broke into a local church and caused extensive damage, authorities said. The incident has raised concern in the community and is being investigated as a possible hate crime.
Officers with the Mill Valley Police Department responded around 11:20 p.m. to a reported noise disturbance near Oakdale and West Blithedale avenues. When they arrived, they found an empty vehicle parked in the roadway with its engine running and loud music playing. Police searched the area for the driver but did not find anyone connected to the car. The unusual scene led officers to expand their search to nearby properties.
The vehicle was parked directly in front of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, prompting officers to check the church grounds. At first, they found no one outside. However, the situation changed quickly after they contacted a church representative.
The church representative told officers he had seen someone inside the building and noticed damage to the interior. This information led officers to enter the church to investigate further. Inside, police located the suspect, identified as Suhail Khojah Siddiqi, a 29-year-old man from Newark. Officers detained him at the scene without further incident.
Authorities said Siddiqi allegedly entered the church unlawfully and caused significant damage to items used for worship. Officials have not released a full list of damaged property, but they described the destruction as extensive.
Police arrested Siddiqi and booked him into the Marin County Jail. He faces several charges, including burglary, vandalism of a place of worship, and committing a hate crime. Investigators have not shared details about what may have motivated the alleged actions. However, the inclusion of a hate crime charge suggests authorities believe the act may have targeted the church or its religious significance.
The incident has unsettled residents in Mill Valley, a small city known for its quiet neighborhoods and strong sense of community. Acts of vandalism at places of worship often draw strong reactions due to their emotional and cultural impact. Church members expressed concern about the damage and the disruption to a sacred space. Local leaders have also called for calm and unity as the investigation continues.
Police continue to investigate the case and gather evidence. They have not announced whether Siddiqi has legal representation or when he will appear in court. Authorities urge anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Mill Valley Police Department.
