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LEESBURG - Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department is continuing its investigation this morning into the fire that destroyed Leesburg Grace Brethren Church on Tuesday.
The fire was reported at 3:50 a.m. Tuesday by neighbors who smelled smoke. When Leesburg Fire Department arrived at the scene, the church was engulfed in flames.
About 40 area firefighters helped fight the blaze, which took about 1-1/2 hours to contain. All hot spots were put out by 9:30 a.m.
The older half of the church, which was built of stone, was gutted by the fire. An addition to the structure built in 1977 was destroyed.
Officials from The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, State Fire Marshal and Squad 70 are removing debris from the scene and searching for clues to determine the cause of the blaze.
Officials reported this morning the fire may have started in the basement of the church. Cleanup revealed that the basement appears to be most damaged.
Officials say the ATF is routinely called in to investigate all church fires since the rash of arson cases that destroyed Southern churches during the past two years.
The church congregation met in the parking lot Tuesday evening to discuss the fire and loss of their building.
Pastor Jeff Hoffard said he has been very encouraged by the community outreach to the church. Several local churches have offered the Grace Brethren congregation a place to meet, and town officials have opened the town council building for them.
Hoffard said the church plans to meet at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, the regular time of worship. He will announce later this week where the service will be held.
