FIRE OFFICIALS: St. Peter’s Church in New Bremen destroyed in early Monday morning fire

NEW BREMEN- St. Peter’s Church has been destroyed from a fire that sparked during the early hours on Monday.

As previously reported, firefighters were dispatched shortly after 4:00 a.m. to a fully involved structure fire at 6468 Tillmen Road.

A passerby alerted emergency authorities, claiming that they could see flames from within the church.

The first wave of responding firefighters confirmed the back of the structure had become fully engulfed and flames were spreading quickly.

Emergency officials say brutally cold temperatures and slippery conditions made battling the blaze very difficult.

Despite the best efforts given, the church ended up being a total loss. A cause is under investigation, according to Lewis County Emergency Management.

The church, owned by St. Peter’s Oratory, was insured.

New Bremen Fire Department was the primary responder.

Beaver Falls, Castorland, Croghan, Lowville and Martinsburg Fire Departments all provided mutual aid.

Members from the State Police, Sheriff’s Office, New York State Fire, Cause & Origin, Search & Rescue and New Bremen Auxiliary all provided assistance.

Image via Tom Schindler.