Massive Four-Alarm Fire Engulfs Historic First Baptist Church in Dallas, No Injuries Reported

Jul 20, 2024, 02:08 AM

A massive fire broke out at the historic First Baptist Church in downtown Dallas on the evening of July 19, 2024. The fire, which escalated to a four-alarm blaze, caused significant damage to the church's historic sanctuary, founded in 1868 and led by Dr. Robert Jeffress. Reports indicate that an explosion was heard before the fire began. Dallas Fire-Rescue crews responded to the incident at 6:05 p.m. at 1717 San Jacinto Street and were confronted with heavy smoke and fire conditions. Nearly 40 units were on the scene by 6:40 p.m. Despite the severity of the blaze, no injuries have been reported so far. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The church had hosted 2,000 people for Vacation Bible School earlier in the day. The fire also caused the secondary chapel to largely collapse. Pastor Jeffress expressed gratitude that the church community is defined by its people, not the building.