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Arson Suspected In Century Church Fire; Reward Now Offered
October 12, 2016
A little smoke was still rising from the rubble of the Wesley Chapel church in Century late Tuesday morning, over two days after the church burned to the ground, likely the work of an arsonist.
Neighbors reported hearing an explosion before looking outside to see the Wesley Chapel Church on Jefferson Avenue fully involved in flames just before daybreak Sunday. The building was a complete and total loss. There were no injuries reported.
Now, the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the fire as arson and offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification of the person responsible for the fire. Anyone with information on the fire can call 877-NO-ARSON (877-662-7766) or Detective Bell at (850) 453-7803.
The church on Jefferson Avenue had sat empty since a February 15 EF-3 tornado ripped through Century, causing significant damage to the building. The congregation had continued to meet each Sunday in the local County on Aging building. A church member said they had recently decided to dismantle the old building board by board, hoping to salvage and use as much of the wood as possible from the 1934 structure.
The building had no utility service. The fire also caused damage — melted siding — to a neighboring home.
NorthEscambia.com photos click to enlarge.
Comments
3 Responses to “Arson Suspected In Century Church Fire; Reward Now Offered”
Whoever did this, God knows, you are cursed with a curse sir or mam. Judgement is mines said The Lord and I shall repay.
What kind of a devil would burn down a house of prayer?
How very sad. I’ve followed the story since this old church was damaged during the tornadoes. I hope that they catch whoever may have done this, and even if they aren’t, caught, that God will completely convict their hearts.