KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — Knoxville Fire Department investigators have determined that an accidental fire at Overcoming Believers Church was caused by a wall-mounted heating and air conditioning unit.
Emergency crews responded to the church, located at 211 Harriet Tubman Street, at approximately 9:25 a.m. on July 27 after reports of smoke coming from the building.
Following an investigation, the Knoxville Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit found the fire originated in a wall-mounted HVAC unit located in the church’s dining area. Investigators reported there was no evidence of suspicious activity and officially classified the fire as accidental.
Fire officials said damage in the dining area was significant, but the blaze was largely contained to that portion of the building, helping prevent more extensive damage throughout the facility.
No injuries were reported.
Church leadership indicated that ministry operations and community outreach programs will continue while recovery and restoration work moves forward.
The Knoxville Fire Department is using the incident as a reminder for residents and business owners to properly maintain heating and cooling equipment and to have electrical appliances regularly inspected and serviced according to manufacturer recommendations.
Church officials and fire department personnel also expressed appreciation for the support the congregation and church have received from the community following the fire.
