KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — Firefighters responded to a structure fire at North Knoxville Baptist Church early Wednesday morning, limiting damage and preventing the fire from spreading throughout the building.
According to the Knoxville Fire Department, crews were dispatched at approximately 6:30 a.m. to 217 W. Oldham Avenue after a passing motorist reported seeing smoke coming from the church.
When firefighters arrived, they found smoke and flames visible from the front of the building.
Crews quickly entered the structure and launched an interior attack on the fire. Fire officials said firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control within about 30 minutes.
The fire caused significant damage to the church’s foyer area, including fire, smoke and water damage. Officials said other portions of the church sustained heavy smoke damage, but firefighters successfully prevented the blaze from spreading further into the building.
No injuries were reported among church staff, members of the public or responding firefighters.
Fire investigators remained on scene Wednesday morning working to determine what caused the fire.
The extent of the damage and whether the church’s services or activities will be affected have not yet been announced.
