September 9, 2015

Indianapolis Church Building Damaged By Fire

No one was injured in the early morning fire at St. Monica Catholic Church. Damages are estimated at $400,000. - Rita Reith/Indianapolis Fire Department

No one was injured in the early morning fire at St. Monica Catholic Church. Damages are estimated at $400,000.

Rita Reith/Indianapolis Fire Department

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — An overnight fire badly damaged part of an Indianapolis church building, causing the roof to collapse on a section next to the sanctuary.

The fire was reported about 4 a.m. Wednesday at St. Monica Catholic Church in the 6100 block of North Michigan Road.

Fire Capt. Rita Reith says firefighters saw heavy flames when they arrived. Firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the vestibule area but the church sanctuary had some water and smoke damage.

No injuries were reported and investigators ruled the fire was accidental.

The 3,000-family parish's school wasn't damaged, but classes were called off for Wednesday. Church pastor the Rev. Todd Goodson says he decided to hold daily Mass in the school gymnasium.

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