Overview

• Crews arrived around 7 a.m. to heavy smoke at the Fuqua Street church and shifted to a defensive strategy because of intense fire conditions and water-supply challenges.
• Two Houston firefighters were hurt while establishing water lines and pulling hose, suffering a broken ankle and a fractured femur before being treated and released.
• Officials reported no one was inside the building during the blaze, which produced smoke visible from the Gulf Freeway.
• HFD says the church is likely a total loss after severe structural damage, with melted side walls and a destroyed front facade.
• HFD arson investigators, Houston police, and the ATF are examining the scene as congregants, who recently completed roof repairs and planned renovations, ask the community for support.