AFD Fights Church Fire On North Jefferson Thursday
The Amarillo Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at a Church in the 800 block of North Jefferson Street on Thursday evening at 8:20. Firefighters found an exterior fire spreading up the south wall of the church near two HVAC condenser units. The fire had extended into an interior mechanical closet. Firefighters quickly extinguished the exterior fire and checked the building for extension.
Crews gained entry, conducted a search of the structure, and confirmed the building was unoccupied. Firefighters also ventilated the building and checked the attic and affected areas for additional fire. The fire was declared under control at 9:00 PM.
No injuries or fatalities were reported. Property damage estimates are pending. The Amarillo Fire Marshal’s Office responded and determined the cause to be the result of reckless arson during an attempted theft. Investigators determined that an unknown individual or individuals attempted to steal copper components from the HVAC system and used an open flame, likely a torch, to cut copper refrigerant lines.