Chattanooga, August 24, 2025
News Summary
An investigation is ongoing into a fire at the historic Chattanooga Bible Way Church, which erupted over the weekend. This incident follows two other recent church fires in the area, one categorized as arson. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported in any of the incidents. The community is rallying together to restore and preserve the affected churches while addressing concerns about safety and homelessness. Local officials are seeking public assistance to identify a suspect linked to the arson case at Highland Park Baptist Church.
Chattanooga
An investigation into a fire at the historic Chattanooga Bible Way Church is underway after firefighters responded to the scene on Saturday evening. Multiple 9-1-1 calls alerted the Chattanooga Fire Department just before 8:30 p.m. to the presence of smoke and flames emanating from the church located on Beulah Avenue.
When emergency responders arrived, heavy smoke and flames were visible, particularly from the roof of the building. Firefighters managed to bring the fire under control within 30 minutes, and fortunately, there were no reported injuries. The exact cause of the fire remains undetermined and is currently under investigation.
This incident follows a separate fire at Temple Baptist Church on Rossville Boulevard earlier on Friday. This fire occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. and resulted from a trash fire that spread after being started by unhoused individuals outside the church. Fire crews quickly extinguished the flames that had entered the church’s front foyer, causing some damage to the structure and a nearby wooden fence; however, no injuries were reported in this incident either.
Additionally, a recent fire at the former Highland Park Baptist Church on June 10 has been ruled as arson. This fire destroyed significant areas of the church, including the Phillips Chapel and the Chauncey-Goode Auditorium, prompting a response from over 100 firefighters. Surveillance footage from the area captured a person of interest, described as an older white male on a dark-colored 10-speed bicycle. Investigators are requesting public assistance in identifying this individual and are offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for any tips leading to an arrest in the arson case.
A community effort is underway to preserve the remnants of the Highland Park Baptist Church, following the extensive destruction from the fire. The current property, now part of Redemption to the Nations Church, aims to save and restore key features such as the bell tower and stained glass walls. The cause of the fire at Highland Park remains under active investigation; however, officials have reported no evidence suggesting foul play.
These events have raised concerns among local residents regarding the safety of community places of worship and have sparked discussions about homelessness and the underlying causes of small fires in public spaces. The collaboration between local firefighters, community members, and law enforcement aims to ensure the protection and restoration of these historic churches in Chattanooga.
Key Details of the Incidents
- Chattanooga Bible Way Church: Fire reported on Saturday at 8:30 p.m.; extinguished within 30 minutes; cause under investigation.
- Temple Baptist Church: Trash fire spread to church on Friday at 1:30 a.m.; damage occurred but no injuries.
- Highland Park Baptist Church: June 10 fire ruled as arson; significant damage; suspect sought with a reward offered.
Background Context
Church fires can hold historical significance for communities, often serving as places for social gatherings and spiritual solace. The three incidents reported have not only caused physical damage but have raised pressing questions about safety and preservation in the community. Local leaders and nonprofit organizations are mobilizing efforts to both investigate the causes of these fires and support the restoration and eventual safety of these sites.
FAQ Section
What caused the fire at Chattanooga Bible Way Church?
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation and has not been determined yet.
Were there any injuries reported?
No injuries have been reported in any of the three recent church fire incidents.
What is being done to investigate the arson at Highland Park Baptist Church?
Investigators are actively looking into the matter and have requested public assistance in identifying a suspect captured on surveillance footage.
How can residents help in the investigation?
Residents can offer tips to law enforcement regarding any information they may have about the fires, especially related to the individual seen in the surveillance footage. A cash reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.
Summary of Church Fire Incidents
| Incident | Date & Time | Location | Cause | Injuries | Response |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chattanooga Bible Way Church | Saturday, 8:30 PM | Beulah Avenue | Under Investigation | None | Controlled within 30 minutes |
| Temple Baptist Church | Friday, 1:30 AM | Rossville Boulevard | Trash Fire, External | None | Quickly extinguished |
| Highland Park Baptist Church | June 10 | N/A | Arson | None | Over 100 firefighters responded |
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Additional Resources
- NewsChannel9
- Local3News
- WATE
- Times Free Press
- Local3News
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Google Search: Chattanooga church fire
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga church arson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Google News: Chattanooga events 2023
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
