On Saturday, Jan. 5, at approximately 9:00 p.m. Wicomico County Central alerted the Salisbury Fire Department to 326 Delaware Avenue, for the fire at the Holy Temple Church of God and Christ.
Stations 16, 2 and 1 responded after the fire was discovered by the church's pastor. Bishop James L. Eure was reportedly in the church preparing for the Sunday services when a transformer in the basement allegedly blew out. Bishop Eure and other members were able to safely evacuate the church.
Additional ladder companies were special called from Station 5 (Hebron) and Station 14 (Sharptown) early in the incident.
After approximately 45 minutes firefighters were able to place the fire under control. Despite having working smoke alarms, the fire was able to gain considerable headway, causing a great deal of damage.
The Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause. There were no reported civilian or firefighter injuries.
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