Public Asked For Information On Church Fire

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Fire Investigation Task Force determined an overnight fire at Briar Creek Baptist Church was set on purpose. Investigators were on the scene overnight and this morning, working through the buildings, looking for burn patterns and digging through debris in order to find the cause.

“We completed our work on the scene and determined this was intentionally set,” said Charlotte Fire Department Senior Fire Investigator David Williams. “Now we’re asking the public to call us if they have any more information about the fire. If you saw someone in the area or heard anything, call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or call the police or fire department.”

The Charlotte Fire Investigation Task Force is comprised of Charlotte Fire investigators, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department detectives, a State Bureau of Investigations agent and a special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Williams said the task force is developing a list of suspects.

A resident from the nearby apartment complex called 911 just before 1 a.m. Wednesday, June 24 and reported the fire. The first engine arrived on scene within three minutes and reported heavy smoke and fire. Moments later, commanders called for a second alarm, then a third, which brings additional personnel and equipment to help fight the fire. More than 75 firefighters controlled the fire in an hour and 15 minutes. Damage to the church is estimated at more than $250 thousand.

An additional rehab vehicle was called to provide extra water and support for the firefighters, who worked hard in extremely hot and humid conditions to control the fire and perform extensive overhaul operations to ensure the fire wouldn’t flare up again. Medic treated one firefighter at the scene and transported one as a precaution; that firefighter was treated and released.

Again, anyone who has information about the fire should call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600, or call police or the Charlotte Fire Department.