Fire damages St. Luke’s not arson

An early morning fire caused considerable damage to the St. Luke’s Catholic Church on 15th Street.

The call came in shortly before 6 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14. When firefighters arrived on scene heavy smoke could be seen coming out of the roof towards the back of the church near Loretto Catholic School.

The DFD was able to use its newly purchased 100 foot aerial ladder fire truck for the first time to help combat the fire along with two other fire trucks.

Douglas’ Fire Chief Mario Novoa said the new ladder truck worked beautifully and helped them attack the blaze from a different angle helping save the church from further damage.

The pulpit area of the church was heavily damaged and there is smoke and water throughout the lobby and main chapel area but the building is repairable.

Several items at the alter area were saved and removed once the fire was extinguished.

The chief said the side chapel was also not damaged and candles that had been lit were still burning when he walked through the building once the fire was out.

One firefighter was injured in the fire and was taken to Southeast Arizona Medical Center for treatment.

The 7 a.m. mass that was normally held at St. Luke’s each morning was canceled.

Officials are saying the fire does not appear to be arson and the investigation is continuing.