Lake Havasu City, December 1, 2025
A man has been arrested for arson at Calvary Church in Lake Havasu City, following a fire that occurred on November 30. The suspect, 49-year-old Keith Gensamer, was caught on surveillance footage and later arrested after police tracked him to a trailer south of the city. The church faced significant damage, prompting a temporary closure and relocation of services.
Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Man Arrested for Church Arson and Robbery
A man has been arrested in connection with the recent arson at Calvary Church in Lake Havasu City, which occurred on November 30, 2025. Police responded to a burglary and fire alarm at the church located at 3100 Sweetwater Avenue around 1:30 a.m., discovering signs of forced entry and an active fire inside the building. Following a thorough investigation, it was determined that the incident was an act of arson.
The suspect, 49-year-old Keith Gensamer, was identified through surveillance footage showing him wearing a red hooded sweatshirt and jeans while driving a silver or gray Toyota Tacoma pickup truck with a New Mexico license plate. Authorities tracked Gensamer to a trailer he was staying in, south of Lake Havasu City, where he was subsequently arrested later that day without incident. The exact charges he faces have not been disclosed, and the case remains under investigation.
Background
Following the fire, Calvary Church reported that while there was minimal fire damage, significant smoke and water damage necessitated repairs. In light of these circumstances, the church has temporarily closed its Sweetwater campus and moved all Sunday services to its McCulloch campus. The local police have expressed gratitude to the community for their assistance in locating the suspect through social media shares.
Recent Arizona Church Arson Incidents
This incident is part of a worrying trend of church arson cases in Arizona, with several notable events occurring in recent years:
- Life Changers Global Ministries: A fire struck the grounds on August 31, 2025, hours after Sunday service.
- Living Word Baptist Church: A fire was set at the church on October 25, 2024, causing extensive damage to the building.
- St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church: Fire broke out early October 18, 2024.
- Alhambra Beloved Community Church: A fire began in the church’s gymnasium on August 25, 2024, before spreading into classrooms.
- St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church: Both burned on May 22, 2023.
Contact Information
If you have any information related to this case, please contact the Lake Havasu City Police Department at (928) 855-1171.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened at Calvary Church in Lake Havasu City?
On November 30, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m., Lake Havasu City Police responded to a burglary and fire alarm at Calvary Church, located at 3100 Sweetwater Avenue. Upon arrival, officers discovered signs of forced entry and an active fire inside the building. After extinguishing the fire, investigators found substantial evidence indicating the incident was an act of arson.
Who is the suspect in this case?
The suspect has been identified as 49-year-old Keith Gensamer. He was seen wearing a red hooded sweatshirt and jeans, and driving a silver or gray Toyota Tacoma pickup truck with New Mexico license plate BYXJ35. Investigators learned that Gensamer’s vehicle had recently been seen towing a travel trailer, and he was believed to be staying in the desert area south of Lake Havasu City.
Was the suspect arrested?
Yes, at approximately 3:00 p.m. on November 30, 2025, deputies from the Mohave County Sheriff’s Department located Gensamer’s trailer about two miles south of Lake Havasu City. After setting up surveillance, Gensamer was arrested without incident. The charges he faces have not been announced, and the arson remains under investigation.
What is the current status of Calvary Church?
Calvary Church reported minimal fire damage but significant smoke and water damage that required repairs. In response, the church closed its Sweetwater campus and moved all Sunday services to its McCulloch campus.
How can I contact the Lake Havasu City Police Department?
If you have any information related to this case, please contact the Lake Havasu City Police Department at (928) 855-1171.
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Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date and Time | November 30, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m. |
| Location | Calvary Church, 3100 Sweetwater Avenue, Lake Havasu City, Arizona |
| Suspect | Keith Gensamer, 49 years old |
| Charge Status | Still under investigation; charges not yet announced |
| Current Church Status | Moved Sunday services to McCulloch campus; Sweetwater campus closed for repairs |
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