Cades Baptist Church was heavily damaged by fire after officials say it was struck by lightning, Tuesday.
Assistant Fire Chief with South Lynches Fire Department Legrand Richardson says residents called 911 around 6:05 p.m. saying the church on Christian Avenue was on fire.
Tommy Coward lives next door to the church and heard when the church was hit. "Lightning just struck the steeple and it was all over it then. The fire started by the time I got out the house. I can hear it from the inside of the house and got outside and it was smoke coming from the attic of the church. Called 911," said Coward.
Richardson says they were able to contain the fire, but are still working to get it under control. Highway Patrol blocked Cades Road leading to the church until fire crews leave the scene. Richardson says the church's roof and attic area are destroyed.
The sanctuary has a lot of smoke and water damage said Richardson. Parishioners say it appears their fellowship hall and classrooms are okay. Richardson says a firefighter was hurt when a metal coupling off of a water hose hit him.
He was taken to a Florence hospital, but is expected to be okay.
Many say the church is a staple in the community and they hope parishioners will be able to renovate the house of worship. Coward said,"We hate to lose this church. It's got a lot of precious memories in this church here." Richardson says it could be several hours before the two-alarm fire is under control.
Five fire departments responded to fire with more than 40 firefighters. Deputies with Williamsburg County Sheriff's Office are also on scene.
