Clayton County Fire & Emergency Services (CCFES) were called to action at a local Rex Road church, where an unsanctioned board and care facility for state-custodied youth was operating in the basement—prompting a flurry of safety concerns and regulatory citations. On Tuesday evening, crews from CCFES arrived at Now Faith Apostolic Church at 3406 Rex Road to find numerous minors housed in makeshift dormitory-style rooms, according to the official press release from the county.
Following a site inspection by the Fire Marshal’s Office, it was confirmed that 12 juveniles, ages 15 to 18, were residing in the church's basement, which the property owner admitted during further questioning by authorities. While notifying the Clayton County Fire Marshal’s Office for a thorough probe, responders were directed to the facility's sub-level where the scene with the residing minors unfolded. CCFES and local law enforcement conducted an evacuation later that evening to ensure the safety of the occupants.
In a statement obtained by Clayton County news, Fire Chief Tim Sweat emphasized, “The health and safety of all residents—especially our youth—remains a top priority of Clayton County Fire & Emergency Services”. He confirmed CCFES's dedication to maintaining rigorous safety standards. Following their inspection, the Fire Marshal’s Office doled out numerous citations for violating local and national fire codes including the lack of an automatic sprinkler system and an adequate fire alarm system.
Due to the various fire code violations, the Fire Marshal issued citations which include requirements for entirely upgrading the facility's life safety systems. They mandated the installation of an automatic fire sprinkler system and the urgent need for a functioning fire alarm system among others; these citations are scheduled to be addressed at the Clayton County Code Enforcement Board meeting on September 9, 2025. With the minors under the custody of the State Department of Family & Children Services, they were provided with necessary relocation assistance by DFACS following their late-night evacuation completed around 5:30 AM yesterday.
Clayton County Fire & Emergency Services is actively engaging with community partners to ensure that all facilities operating within the county are adhering to the life safety standards set forth. Anyone looking for more details is encouraged to reach out to the Office of the Fire Chief by calling (770) 473-7833 or sending an email to [email protected] as per the contact information available in their latest announcement.
