From Tribune staff reports
LEEDS — Firefighters from Leeds Fire and Rescue battled a massive blaze at an abandoned church on Ashville Road on Saturday evening, according to city officials.
“Around 5 p.m. today, we were notified of a fire at the old church on Ashville Road,” Fire officials said. “When our units arrived they found the church full of flames.”
LFRD said hey attempted to enter in the front door of sanctuary area and a basement door but the fire was already massive in both areas and they had to pull back and do a defensive (surround the building) mode.
Officials said attention had to be placed on area houses due to high winds blowing embers across Ashville Road. During this fire the were windy conditions and below freezing temperatures causing some hazardous conditions.
“We know this was a devastating fire to the community,” LFRD officials said. “If not the oldest, one of the oldest church buildings in Leeds. Several citizens grew up or attended this church when it was First Baptist Church and while it was Pathway Baptist Church. Every effort was put into extinguishing this fire.”
Even off duty members came to assist because they saw the smoke while traveling towards Leeds on I-20, as well as others learning through social media.
“They came because they knew this was a challenging and dangerous fire due to the age of the building and that the building had been vacant for many years leaving several areas in a dilapidated state,” officials said. “We all know that people occupy this structure for various reasons, some for exploring, some for nefarious reasons, and some for shelter. We hope and pray no one was in this structure.”
The cause is still under investigation. The Alabama Fire Marshall’s office has been contacted and will be assisting in the investigation.
LFRD officials expressed appreciation for support they received from across the community and neighboring communities while they were battling the massive structure fire, including the Moody Fire Department which assisted in fighting the fire.
“Thanks to Leeds Alabama Police Department for blocking roads and keeping everyone safe,” Fire officials said. “Leeds Street Dept for barricades and sanding the street and sidewalk in the area. The wind and temperature caused an icy street and side walks.”
Officials thanked RPS for having a unit there and using it as a warming station, as well as Chick-fil-A and Waffle House for supplying food and drinks to firefighters.
“We will be monitoring the fire overnight and into tomorrow so be aware that Ashville Road from Whitmire Street to Morgan Street will be blocked,” officials said. “Please use caution in the area. This a great community we serve that comes together when there is a need and that was shown today!”