Arson Suspected in Vacant Fort Worth Church Blaze

Arson is suspected in a blaze that destroyed a vacant church in Fort Worth Tuesday night.

First firefighters found heavy smoke, and initiated an interior attack. However, as conditions quickly deteriorated, they went into defensive mode, Lt. Kyle Faulkner wrote in a statement.

The incident commander requested additional manpower, and the second and third-alarms were struck.

An expanded collapse zone was established due to the steeple. The roof and several walls fell during the incident. 

A firefighter was treated at a hospital for a heat-related illness, and later released.

A watch rotation was established through the night to monitor for rekindles.

Investigators returned Wednesday to continue their investigation.