BROOKLYN — A historic church in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn was heavily damaged by a large fire on Friday, with the building’s steeple collapsing during the blaze, according to the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). The fire broke out at South Bushwick Reformed Church, a landmarked structure more than a century old, officials said.
FDNY officials said the fire started at about 1:20 p.m. and quickly spread through the church building. A three-alarm response was called, bringing dozens of fire units and emergency personnel to the scene, according to the department. Firefighters brought the flames largely under control later in the afternoon, officials said.
The church, located on Bushwick Avenue, was built in the 19th century and has historical ties to the Dutch Reformed tradition in Brooklyn, according to preservation groups. The National Fund for Sacred Places has described the congregation’s history as dating back to early Dutch settlements in the area, with the current building constructed in the mid-1800s.
Fire officials said one firefighter suffered minor injuries while responding to the blaze and declined further medical treatment. No other injuries were reported by authorities. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, FDNY officials said.
The fire caused extensive damage to the structure, including the collapse of the steeple, according to officials and local reports. The FDNY said crews faced difficult conditions while working inside the aging building. Details about the full extent of the damage and whether the church can be restored remain unclear.
The church had previously faced structural concerns involving its steeple. Preservation officials reported that the steeple was damaged during a 2020 storm and later repaired with funding from donations and a preservation grant. New York City Department of Buildings records cited by preservation officials showed earlier concerns about the structure’s condition.
Community members gathered near the scene as firefighters continued operations. Local officials and preservation advocates have not announced a final decision on the future of the building, which remains subject to safety assessments following the fire.
On Monday, FDNY officials said the investigation into the cause of the blaze was continuing. Authorities have not released further details about what may have started the fire or whether any additional damage assessments have been completed.
