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  • Little remains of the Gospel Truth Lighthouse Church, across from Lester Square in Sophia, Sunday afternoon. A space heater is suspected in the blaze, but will be investigated by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Jeff Stover

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  • More than 45 firefighters from seven departments battled the blaze. Photo courtesy Derek Kincaid/Lester VFD

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February 4, 2013

Fire destroys Sophia church

By Wendy Holdren Register-Herald Reporter

SOPHIA — Seven fire departments and more than 45 firefighters responded to a structure fire in Sophia at Gospel Truth Lighthouse Church at approximately 12:30 a.m. Sunday.

Sophia City Fire Chief Jeff Pittman said when his crew arrived, within 10 minutes — after making their way across slick, snow-covered roads — fire was already coming through the church’s roof. The structure was fully engulfed.

They suspect a space heater was the cause of the fire.

Crews from Sophia City, Sophia Area, Coal City, Mabscott, Lester, Trap Hill and Beaver fire departments worked until nearly 4 a.m. fighting the flames.

Pittman said there were no injuries, but the building was a total loss.

 

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