Massive Fire Engulfs Historical Buford Church

A large three-story church (The First Pentecostal Church) at 15 East Moreno Street NE in Buford sustained extensive damage in a fire Thursday night, November 28, 2024. Gwinnett County firefighters responded to multiple 911 calls reporting smoke coming from the church roof at 10:02 p.m.

Fire crews arrived at 10:06 p.m. to find smoke emanating from a vent at the top of the sanctuary. As firefighters searched for the source, they discovered flames in the attic section above the sanctuary. The fire quickly intensified, forcing crews to retreat as conditions became hazardous.

Portions of the church collapsed as firefighters withdrew. A personnel accountability report (PAR) was conducted to ensure all crew members were safe. Additional units were called in to assist in a defensive operation, utilizing ladder trucks and fire hoses to contain the blaze and protect nearby structures.

The fire was brought under control by 2:30 a.m. Utility workers disconnected electrical service to the building, but structural collapse prevented the shutoff of natural gas.

Two young male church members reportedly attempted to extinguish the fire before escaping and calling 911. No injuries were reported, and bystanders confirmed the building was safely evacuated.

Fire investigators could not rule out an electrical issue as the cause of the fire but found no indication of criminal activity.