The fire extinguished itself because there was not enough fuel to sustain the blaze, Lieutenant Richard Cook said today.
The fire at Stanley White Presbyterian Church on Ashton Street was reported between 7:30 and 8 p.m. and was between the office area and fellowship hall.
Firefighters believe the fire started on the stove and while deemed suspicious, Cook said he could not say if it was malicious.
Police, along with the State Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms were investigating throughout the day.
The Reverend Randy Martin, pastor of Calvary Baptist across the street, said his congregation has offered any assistance to the church. “We’re neighbors and on the same team.”
Although different denominations, “We’re still members of the family of God,” Martin said. “It’s such a tragedy when people show that disrespect to the Lord’s house.”
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