Kauai police arrested a 50-year-old man in connection with a fire that occurred the night before Easter at the Christ Memorial Church in Kīlauea.

The suspect is believed to be a homeless man living in the Kilauea area.

About 10:15 p.m. April 7, a man called police dispatch to report a fire at the church on Kolo Road.

A police officer arrived and was able to extinguish the fire. Damage to the church is estimated about $1,500.

The officer then located the man who appeared to be under the influence of an intoxicant and was severely agitated, police said The man became belligerent and uncooperative, and continued to interfere with the investigation despite several verbal commands to stop.

The man was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest but upon further questioning at the Lihue police station, he admitted to starting the fire and was subsequently arrested for third-degree arson. The man posted $1,000 bail and is awaiting trial.