Fire damages St. Luke’s

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

The call came in shortly before 6 a.m. Wednesday. 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.

Damage was contained to the pulpit area of the church and there is smoke, water and roof damage throughout the lobby and main chapel area.

The chief said the side chapel was not damaged however and the 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 was canceled.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Officials are saying it does not appear to be arson.