DERITA, N.C.,None — Arson investigators are investigating an intentionally set fire at a church-owned building near Bible Presbyterian Church in Derita Saturday.
It's the second intentionally set fire at the church in the last year.
The fire caused $80,000 in damage.
It took nearly 30 firefighters to put out the fire at Bible Presbyterian Church. Flames engulfed a vacant apartment building, owned by the church, just a few feet behind the main sanctuary. "We are a very little church. We have few members in this church. And it really scared us," said member Mark Hung.
In March 2010, there was another intentionally set fire at the church's gymnasium, which is also near the main sanctuary. The fire remains under investigation.
"It raises an eyebrow. It causes us concern," said Battalion Chief Mike Wilson, with the Charlotte Fire Department.
"It was about the same time on a Saturday afternoon. I was working and the Fire Department called me and wanted me to come to the property. So that's pretty disconcerting," said church member Brad Gsell. Church members told Eyewitness News they think the main sanctuary will be targeted next.
"Yes, it's common sense, if you're going to have one fire after another. The person is still on the streets, free," Hung said.
There are several walking paths through the woods behind the church. Members said they often see strangers on the property.
"Are they kids? Are they transients? Are they trespassing, are they here for legitimate purposes, like walking to church? That's stuff that has to be sorted out," said Chief Wilson.
There were no injuries in either fire.
Fire investigators said there's not much the church can do to prevent arson, but they suggested improvements to the parking lot lighting.
Investigators also said the church should work with neighbors to make sure they call 911 at the first sign of suspicious activity.
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