Electrical Problem Identified as Cause of Pikesville Church Fire

Baltimore County Police Fire investigators have determined that an electrical malfunction caused yesterday's fire at the St. Paul Praise and Worship Center. Firefighters responded to the 500 block of Reisterstown Road, 21208, at 9:47 a.m. for a report of a building on fire. They found fire visible from the first floor. 

Fire crews extinguished the fire on the first and second floors and found the fire had extended into the steeple of the church. Despite the challenging conditions posed by yesterday's strong winds, they managed to bring the situation under control. Once extinguished, fire crews found the doors to the worship area had been closed, preventing fire and smoke from damaging the sanctuary. 

Fortunately, no one was injured. Fire investigators identified an electrical junction box as the origin of the fire. Electrical fires can grow quickly and spread out of control. Here are some common causes of electrical fires to avoid:

• Incorrectly installed wiring
• Overloaded circuits and extension cords
• Defective or improper plugs, switches, and outlets
• Misuse and poor maintenance of lighting