The Champaign and Urbana Fire Departments responded to a two-alarm fire at 102 N State Street, Champaign, (Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church) on Tuesday, January 23, 2018, at 4:49 p.m. Fire investigators have completed their investigation and classified this fire as accidental.
Investigators worked late into the evening on Tuesday, January 23, performing a scene examination and reconstructing pre-fire conditions. As of early today, investigators have completed all eyewitness interviews, a critical part of the investigation process.
Investigators have determined the fire began in the attic of the church rectory above a second-story restroom, near a bathroom ventilation fan. The fire was caused by an electric failure at the point of origin.
Contact: Randy Smith, Deputy Fire Marshal | 217-403-7212