A historic church in the Bronx sustained severe damage after a fire broke out yesterday afternoon. The scene unfolded just past 4 p.m., with over 100 firefighters rushing to Beck Memorial Presbyterian Church—a site that had not held services for years and was sitting vacant. The intensity of the flames prompted a two-alarm response, leading to a nearly two-hour battle before the inferno was finally brought under control, as reported by News 12 The Bronx.
Although no injuries were reported in the blaze, the incident drew attention to the potential risks associated with neglected, abandoned buildings in the area. Community Board 6 stated that it had raised concerns about the church’s condition over a year ago and sent a letter to the Presbytery of New York City in March 2024, requesting that someone be appointed to oversee the property. According to the board, no action was taken in response, as News 12 The Bronx detailed.
Officials say fire marshals are investigating to determine the cause of the fire. Deputy Assistant Chief Mike Woods described the scene as extremely hazardous, with firefighters facing collapsing ceilings and unstable floors, conditions that ultimately forced a tactical withdrawal for their safety, this account was captured in a statement obtained by ABC7 New York.
