Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
NORTH MANCHESTER - A fire that destroyed the North Manchester Church of the Brethren has been ruled accidental.
According to North Manchester Fire Department officials the fire was ignited by an electric water heater in the church kitchen.
Church members say they are relieved it was not arson.
The church announced that services will be held Sunday at an auditorium at Manchester High School, then will be held at a Manchester College auditorium.
Church officials are unsure whether the shell that remains at the corner of Sixth and Walnut streets can be rebuilt or whether parts of it could be incorporated into a new building.
The fire was found early Wednesday morning and ripped through the 117-year-old main sanctuary of the church, as well as several newer additions.
Damage estimates are more than $1 million.
