Lightning Suspected in Fire at Cherry Creek Church of Christ in Columbus
A fire broke out at the Cherry Creek Church of Christ on Sullivant Avenue in Columbus early Monday morning. The blaze, which was reported just before 4 a.m., resulted in heavy flames coming from the roof. Columbus Fire Department officials suspect that a lightning strike earlier in the day may have caused the fire, although the investigation is still ongoing. Firefighters initially tackled the fire defensively from outside the building due to its size, before entering to search for victims. Fortunately, no victims were found, and no firefighters were injured. The fire caused a section of the church's roof to collapse, rendering that part of the building a total loss. However, officials believe that one side of the building may still be usable. Approximately 50 to 80 firefighters responded to the scene, utilizing 10 engines, five ladder trucks, and other emergency vehicles.