CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — A local church was destroyed Thursday morning after a fire broke out at the Neutral Ground Worship Church, located at 142 Hayward Avenue in Circleville.
Firefighters were dispatched to the scene after reports of smoke and flames coming from the structure. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy smoke and active fire inside the building and immediately began fire suppression efforts.
According to officials on scene, it took firefighters approximately one hour to bring the blaze under control. Despite their efforts, the interior of the church was completely destroyed. By the time the fire was extinguished, only the exterior shell of the building remained standing.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The Ohio Fire Marshal’s Office was on scene Thursday examining the structure and working to determine what sparked the blaze.
The pastor of Neutral Ground Worship Church was present during the investigation and expressed determination to move forward despite the devastating loss.
“We will rebuild,” the pastor said while speaking at the scene.
No injuries were immediately reported.
Hayward Avenue remained closed Thursday as fire crews and investigators continued their work at the site. Motorists were advised to avoid the area until the roadway could be safely reopened.
Additional information will be released as the investigation continues.
