Wednesday, May 23, 2001
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Wednesday, May 23, 2001 |
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Arson ruled as cause of blaze that destroyed local ministry By JOHN
MUNFORD
The blaze that destroyed the home of the Chariots of Fire Ministries has officially been ruled arson. Tests are being performed to determine what type of flammable or combustible liquid was used to feed the blaze, said Capt. Pete Nelms of the Fayette County Department of Fire and Emergency Services. A reward fund has been established for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who started the blaze, Nelms added. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Fayette County Fire Marshall's Office at 770-461-6353, ext. 5414, the Fayette County Sheriff's Department at 770-461-6353 or the state Arson Hotline at 1-800-282-5404. The fire was reported around 3 a.m. May 14 by a passing motorist on Ga. Highway 138. When firefighters arrived six minutes later, flames were already breaking through the roof, Nelms reported. It took firefighters over two hours to get the blaze under control, and Clayton County firefighters assisted the efforts, Nelms said. The family of Luther Graham, bishop of the ministry, was not at home when the blaze occurred. Chariots of Fire's ministry has focused on assisting homeless people by providing job search assistance and shelter. The property has been in limbo for a while after its septic system failed. Graham had sought permission to tie into Clayton County's sewer system from the Fayette County Board of Commissioners. His request was denied, and he filed suit against the county over the issue and lost in court. County health officials have maintained the property would not absorb the septage from the building.
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