At 6:43 PM on Friday July 9, 2004, the Plainfield Fire Department was dispatched to 8554 County Line Road to the Eternal Life Baptist Church.
Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy fire through the roof of the structure and immediately attempted an internal attack. Firefighters were ordered to evacuate shortly after entering the building, and all exited just prior to the roof collapsing. This forced a defensive attack.
Plainfield Assistant Chief Steve Woodruff reported that there were occupants in the building at the time the fire started, but escaped uninjured. Woodruff did report one slight injury to a firefighter who was treated at the scene and returned to work.
Witnesses at the scene reported seeing and hearing lightning minutes before the fire was discovered. While Asst. Chief Woodruff said lightning is suspected, the cause of the fire will be investigated.
Nearby fire departments from Mooresville, Avon and Wayne Township (Indianapolis) also assisted.
