BREAKING: Two churches were intentionally set on fire in Casar, North Carolina, late Friday night, shocking the small community of approximately 300 residents. The fires erupted between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., with both Tabernacle Baptist Church and Calvary’s Cross Baptist Church targeted by an unknown arsonist, according to the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office.
Witnesses reported that vigilant citizens spotted the flames and swiftly intervened, preventing extensive damage to the churches. “If it wasn’t for them, it might not be here yet,” said Pastor Homer Tessner of Tabernacle Baptist Church, whose congregation comprises just 35 members.
According to reports, neighbors passing by on their way to a camping trip noticed the fire at Calvary’s Cross Baptist Church and used their water and tea to help put it out. The quick action of these local heroes has been credited with saving both churches from significant destruction.
Pastor Billy Boone of Calvary’s Cross Baptist Church expressed the community’s shock, stating, “We’ve never had anything like this to happen before, and the church has been in existence for 50 years.” No arrests have been made as authorities continue their investigation into this disturbing act.
The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office has emphasized that the situation is still developing, urging anyone with information about the incidents to come forward. The fires have raised significant concerns about safety in the area and have ignited discussions about the protection of places of worship.
As the investigation unfolds, residents are left grappling with the emotional impact of this attack on their community. With both churches located just eight miles apart, the arson has deeply affected the close-knit town.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation as authorities work to bring those responsible to justice.
