First Baptist fire cause determined to be electrical

BISCOE The fire in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church in Biscoe Tuesday has been ruled undetermined electrical in nature.

Fire investigators from the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and Alcohol Tobacco & Firearms (ATF) made that determination, confirming the initial assessment by the Biscoe Fire Department on Tuesday. A construction project, including wiring for outside lighting, had recently been done in the corner of the sanctuary.

Biscoe Fire Chief Tripp Myrick said the next obstacle was to stabilize the brick walls that are slowly bowing out before they collapse. Biscoe Police have been closely watching the structure for any sign of collapse at night. Fire investigators have been on the scene during the day.

Church members and numerous citizens have also been by to offer condolences and to offer assistance.

Kelly Kellam had immediately offered warehouse storage space for any furniture or other items that were salvageable.

Myrick Construction Inc. crews were successful in removing most of the surviving stained glass windows on Thursday and will finish the delicate task on Friday. These were memorial windows installed when the present church on Main Street was built in 1950.

This was a blow to the town, Commissioner Jimmy Cagle said Wednesday. This church has touched everybody in town at some point in their lives.

First Baptist, under the leadership of the Rev. Larry Wilson and a strong Board of Deacons chaired by Nancy Ruppert, is known for its outreach ministries and diverse congregation.

Wilson, whose health issues have forced him to retire, preached his last sermon on June 29. The Sunday before, half the town had gathered for a retirement dinner and outpouring of love. Larry and Mary Wilson are not leaving Biscoe, just moving from the parsonage to another residence.

The church is not the building. The church is the people, and the people are strong, church members have said repeatedly.

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First Baptist fire cause determined to be electrical