On Friday, July 19, 2024, more than 60 units from Dallas Fire-Rescue responded to a 4-alarm fire at a historic chapel of the First Baptist Church on San Jacinto Street in Downtown Dallas. Crews arrived on the scene within 4 minutes of the initial call at 6:05 p.m.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and fire conditions involving the structure and immediately initiated fire attack operations. A second alarm was quickly requested at 6:20 p.m. Shortly after a third alarm was called at 7:25 p.m., a partial collapse of the structure occurred. Fire operations were defensive, and a fourth alarm was called at 8:14 p.m.
Firefighters worked into the night until the fire was knocked down and contained. The structure largely collapsed. Firefighting operations began to significantly shut down around 2 to 3 a.m. Crews remained on the scene through the night to ensure safety and continue extinguishing hot spots.
During the investigation, it was determined that the building was inaccessible due to the lack of structural integrity. If structural engineers determine the building is unstable, the historic structure will be demolished. No injuries were reported in association with this incident.
The fire is being classified as undetermined at this time. The ATF is assisting with this investigation, as requested by Dallas Fire-Rescue.
