Roanoke Rapids police were still investigating their case, in which they have described Jacob Davis, 20, as a person of interest.

Lieutenant Bobby Martin of the sheriff’s office said Davis was arrested Tuesday and was wanted for a residential breaking and entering.

He was charged with breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering and possession of stolen goods.

A Harley-Davidson motorcycle and a four wheeler were taken.

Davis was later picked up at Wal-Mart early last Tuesday morning by Roanoke Rapids police for other charges and the motorcycle was recovered there.

Davis was released from custody last Wednesday night and the church fire and break-in occurred sometime between July 18 when the church was last known secure and July 21 when the break-in was discovered.

Following the church break-in, in which two older model laptops and loose change was stolen, a fire extinguisher was deployed. Pastor Davis Smith said Saturday it appeared the fire was started by a hymnal being placed on the stove.

Whether deploying the fire extinguisher was a malicious act or an attempt to keep the fire from being suppressed is something church members have discussed, but something that can’t be answered, Smith said.

Firefighters said the fire extinguished itself from lack of fuel but still the damage to the kitchen was extensive and there was enough smoke damage to keep the congregation from worshipping at the church Sunday.