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Authorities are investigating a massive fire that destroyed a vacant church in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, last Friday (November 21). The blaze, which reached five alarms, required assistance from fire departments across the region, including Berks County. The church, located at Hanover and Chestnut Streets, is now being demolished.
Pottstown Fire Chief Frank Hand stated that the investigation will take at least two weeks due to the extensive debris and the need for a thorough examination. The fire, which started before dawn, quickly engulfed the historic building, formerly known as Transfiguration Lutheran Church. The building, most recently owned by Invictus Ministries Inc., was purchased by Lastick Acquisitions LLC in April 2024.
According to WFMZ, police had removed several individuals experiencing homelessness from the church days before the fire, charging them with trespassing. The building had been found unlocked twice, prompting the owner to secure it each time. Despite these measures, the cause of the fire remains undetermined, and no charges have been filed.
The fire displaced dozens of residents, and about 50 people were evacuated as a precaution. The Red Cross provided shelter for those affected. Chief Hand noted that while the building was a significant loss, the focus remains on supporting the displaced residents.
NBC Philadelphia reported that the church's steeple collapsed during the fire, and structural engineers decided to let it burn off to prevent further damage. The investigation will consider various possibilities, including potential gas leaks or electrical issues, as reported by the Pottstown Mercury.