LORAIN, Ohio — Authorities are asking for the public’s help as they investigate a fire that destroyed First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 603 Washington Ave. in Lorain.

The Division of State Fire Marshal is looking for information, specifically video, audio or pictures from people of the fire that started around 6:25 a.m.

State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers said in a press release, “Information from the public is crucial to solving these kinds of cases. Investigators are asking for your assistance so that they can get to the bottom of what caused the fire. Any recordings or pictures of the incident could be valuable to them.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the State Fire Marshal’s Fire & Explosion Investigation Bureau at 1-800-589-2728.

Crews from Amherst, Sheffield Village and Elyria were called to assist.

Admiral Ernest J. King Elementary School, which is located near the church, was been closed for the day due to the blaze.

First Lutheran has been a pillar of the Lorain community for 90 years and is known for feeding the hungry. Members of the congregation said they will rebuild.

Pastor Jimmy Madsen said Sunday services will likely be held outdoors in the church parking lot.

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