Firefighters spent nearly two hours battling a blaze at Columbus United Baptist Church off Taylor Road after being called at 12:30 a.m. Thursday. The fire broke out hours after church members found signs of a possible break-in at the building on Wednesday. The congregation now faces the prospect of rebuilding a sanctuary that has stood since 1974.
Beverly Thompson, wife of Pastor Jimmy Thompson, told WSYX that the couple went to the church around noon Wednesday, October 28, to install a water softener system. They noticed water running down the front steps and a broken window. The couple believes someone entered the building sometime between Sunday night and Wednesday.
Inside, Pastor Jimmy Thompson found lights on throughout the church and pop cans on the floor. The couple called police after checking the building. The fire was reported at 12:30 a.m. Thursday.
Investigators Still Piecing Together What Happened
Church members said fire crew leaders believe the fire was intentionally set, though investigators have not confirmed a cause. Crews are still working to determine where the fire started and whether accelerants were used, according to the station’s report. The Jefferson Township Fire Department and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office are both investigating, though no official statement detailing their findings has been released…