Atlanta, GA
Fire breaks out at southwest Atlanta church, causing partial roof collapse
ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – A church building was seriously damaged in a fire overnight in southwest Atlanta.
Firefighters were called to New Jerusalem Baptist Church off Dill Ave. SW at around 3:40 a.m., the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department said. Nobody was inside, and there were no reported injuries.
Firefighters believe the fire started on the right back side of the building before crawling across the roof, causing a partial roof collapse.
Howard Beckham, who has been the pastor of New Jerusalem Baptist Church for about 30 years, said the congregation moved to the building less than two years ago. The church itself has existed for more than 70 years and has seen two fires at other locations, he said.
Beckham said the church is considering using another undamaged building on the property for tomorrow’s service.
The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.
This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First as we learn more.
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