Suspicious Church Fire Being Investigated In Warrenville, SC

Aiken, S.C., July 03, 2009—According to Sgt. Dave Myers, the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) is investigating an early morning fire, in which there was moderate damage, to the “Rocksville” Baptist Church, located at 660 Pine Street Warrenville, South Carolina.

Shortly after 6:00 a.m., a neighboring citizen heard the audible alarm going off at the church. ACSO dispatch center was notified and dispatched a deputy to respond to the alarm. The citizen notified dispatch shortly after the first call, informing dispatch that there was smoke coming from the church.

The Langley Fire Department was notified of the fire, and responded. Due to the rapid response, and immediate suppression of the fire by the Langley Fire Department, Aiken County Sheriff’s Office Investigators were able to determine, in a short period of time, that the fire was a result of arson.

Damage to the church was moderate as a result of smoke and heat, but minor as the result of actual fire.

Aiken County Sheriff’s Office Investigators do not believe the arson to be the result of any type of hate crime, but have an active on going criminal investigation.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact Lt. Clay Adams with the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office: (800) 922-9709.

Individuals also should call Crime Stoppers of the Midlands: (888) 599-TIPS. Callers will remain anonymous and will be eligible for a cash reward of between $50 and $1,000. You can also call the SC Arson Hotline at 1-800-92-ARSON (27766).