Investigation finds TN church fire was set intentionally

COLUMBIA, Tenn. (WSMV) - An investigation into how a church fire started discovered that it was likely an act of arson.

On April 16, the New Life Ministries of Columbia church building at 317 E 18th Street caught fire. Columbia Fire & Rescue crews worked through heavy flames and smoke to contain it to the “area of origin.”

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The circumstances of the fire were deemed suspicious, so the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation joined fire detectives from the Columbia Fire and the Columbia Police Department to determine how the fire was started.

That investigation concluded on Tuesday, May 6, that the fire was likely intentionally set.

Residents said they have no idea why someone would target a church that has been home to several different congregations over the years.

Pastor Christopher Taylor said they’ve been greatly affected by this tragedy, but they are committed to building and moving forward.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 1-800-762-3017.