UPDATE: Massive fire destroys Swan Valley LDS Church
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LATEST | Chief: LDS Church fire does not appear suspicious
SWAN VALLEY — Fire crews from across east Idaho remained on the scene of a massive fire Tuesday evening after flames ripped through a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints building.
The fire started just after 2 p.m. at the chapel located at 3109 Swan Valley Hwy. Fire officials believe it likely started in the attic and spread quickly throughout the building.
As emergency personnel arrived on scene, flames were visible and fire units were able to keep the fire contained to the property around the church, Bonneville County Sheriff Sgt. Bryan Lovell said.
Highway 26 that runs alongside the building was closed for over an hour for safety purposes, however it has now been reopened.
PHOTO GALLERY | FIRE RIPS THROUGH LDS CHURCH
“We are heartbroken about the fire that has destroyed the chapel in Swan Valley,” said Merv Brown, a local spokesman for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. “This building was constructed in 1949, and is the home to the Palisades Ward.”
Nobody was injured in the blaze and firefighters from Swan Valley, Ririe, Idaho Falls, Ammon, the INL and Rexburg are helping fight the fire.
Fire personnel will be on scene throughout the night to make certain the fire remains contained. Motorists coming through the area are urged to use caution.
For safety reasons no one other than fire personnel will be allowed inside the scene.
Stay with EastIdahoNews.com for updates on the fire.