HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Fire Department responded to a church fire on the southeast side that broke out on Saturday morning.
Firefighters responded near 12815 Fuqua at the Christ Church Apostolic building just after 7 a.m.
Officials swiftly upgraded it to a 2-alarm fire, HFD said.
ABC13 crews en route to the scene captured smoke visible coming from the Gulf Freeway. Smoke and ash could be seen falling from the building as firefighters began to extinguish it.
Fire officials reported that two firefighters were injured while attempting to pull hoses and battle the flames.
“We did have two firefighters who were hurt; they were both transported to the hospital. One had a broken ankle, and one had a fractured femur,” Deputy Chief Douglas Harrison with the Houston Fire Department said.
As fire crews work to recover, those in the church congregation are now working to pick up the pieces after they said they had just completed renovations.
“I know that we did have our roof replaced recently since that tornado that happened a few years ago, and we had plans in process of updating, and we were excited about it for our church and growing our church,” Mary Davis, a member of the church, said.
Now, the side walls are melted, the front of the building has been destroyed, and from the air, there is heavy smoke erupting from the building.
The fire department stated that the church, which was once a staple in the community, is likely a total loss.
“Very emotional because my kids and I come here every year for the pumpkin patch and for trunk or treat, and the members of the church are so welcoming and warm to us every year,” said Shannon Wilson, who works nearby.
Church members told ABC13 that while they work to determine where they will gather for service on Sunday, they are asking for the community’s support.
“No matter what has happened today, he’s going to see us through, and I ask that you stand with us, that you pray with us,” said Davis.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
For news updates, follow Brianna Willis on Facebook, x and Instagram.
Watch live breaking news coverage from ABC13 on our 24/7 streaming news channel.
Submit a tip or story idea to ABC13
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story you think we should cover? Send it to ABC13 using the form below. If you have a video or photo to send, terms of use apply. If you don’t, just hit ‘skip upload’ and send the details.
Copyright © 2025 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.