Car crashes into North Spokane church auditorium

Spokane police responded early Tuesday morning to a car that crashed through a North Spokane church’s wall and into the auditorium. The driver fled the scene on foot and has not been found. Shortly before 4 a.m., police arrived at Life Center Foursquare Church on 1202 W. Government Way to find a Toyota station wagon that had jumped the curb and crashed through the north wall of the church and onto the main stage of the auditorium, according to a news release. Police have not arrested anyone, though detectives have identified a person of interest in the incident, according to the release. They are also working to contact the owner of the vehicle, though the car does not appear to be stolen. There is no evidence to indicate the hit and run was a hate crime, according to the release. In spite of the extensive damage to the church, Administrative Pastor Blake Folden said officials and the congregation are praying for the driver of the vehicle. “We wouldn’t ask for this, but it could be somebody who is just hurting so bad,” Folden said. “It could be someone with mental health disorders or alcohol problems.” The car destroyed a lot of equipment in addition to the wall, but Folden said insurance will cover the damage. Administrators have not canceled any church activities, and Folden said the church will be ready for service on Sunday. “It’s been a little crazy,” Folden said. “We can deal with it, and we are.”