Severe storms play role in fire that destroys church

MILLVILLE, N.J. (AP) - Officials say severe thunderstorms apparently played a role in a fire that destroyed a New Jersey church.

The fire at the Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church in Millville was reported around 5:30 a.m. Sunday.

Investigators tell NJ.com (bit.ly/1UNqZxj) that strong winds spurred by the storm knocked down a tree across the street that fell on power lines. The arcing lines then apparently sparked the blaze.

Officials say wind gusts of up to 60 mph were recorded as the storms roared through the region.

The church’s sanctuary was destroyed by the fire. But firefighters were able to save the church’s social hall, which was attached to the sanctuary.

No injuries were reported in the fire at the church, which dates back to the late 1800s.