Investigators Probe Fire That Badly Damaged Chapel
Emergency services are investigating the cause of a fire that tore through a chapel in Norwich on Sunday afternoon, leaving significant damage to the building.
The blaze broke out at the Redeemed Christian Church of God on Plumstead Road around 14:30 BST, prompting a rapid response from the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service. Multiple crews attended the scene, where plumes of smoke were seen billowing from the roof of the small church.
Images from the scene show that although part of the chapel structure remains intact, there is visible fire damage to the roof and surrounding brickwork. A fire engine remains stationed outside the chapel, and a team of firefighters were seen standing nearby, assessing the extent of the damage and ensuring the site is safe.
A spokesperson for Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that crews were dispatched shortly after the first emergency calls were made and worked to contain the fire as quickly as possible.
“We received a call at approximately 14:30 on Sunday reporting a fire at a church on Plumstead Road,” the spokesperson said. “Several appliances were sent to the location, and firefighters worked for several hours to bring the fire under control.”
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, and it is believed the chapel was unoccupied at the time the fire broke out. Nevertheless, the incident has shocked members of the local community, many of whom are regular worshippers at the chapel.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said Elizabeth O., a nearby resident and long-time member of the congregation. “This church means a lot to us—not just as a place of worship, but as a place of support and unity. To see it like this is very painful.”
The exact cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Investigators from the fire service remained on-site into the evening and returned Monday morning to continue examining the scene. Forensic specialists are working alongside fire investigators to determine if the fire was accidental or if there is any indication of foul play.
Local authorities are urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed anything unusual in the area around the time of the fire to come forward.
“We are conducting a thorough investigation,” said the fire service spokesperson. “Our priority is to establish how the fire started and to rule out any suspicious circumstances.”
Plumstead Road was briefly closed to allow emergency services to operate safely but has since reopened. However, the chapel remains cordoned off as investigations continue.
The Redeemed Christian Church of God congregation is currently exploring options for alternative worship locations while repairs are assessed. Church leaders have expressed hope that the damage can be repaired and that the chapel will be restored.
“We are grateful no one was hurt,” said Pastor Adebayo, a leader at the chapel. “While the building is damaged, our faith and our community remain strong. We will rebuild.”
Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service is expected to release an update once the investigation concludes.
Anyone with information related to the fire is encouraged to contact Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service or Norfolk Police.
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