An early morning fire at the Friendly Temple Church of God in Christ has been ruled accidental following an investigation by local officials and the State Fire Marshals Office. The church, located at Rose and Polk Streets in Russellville, sustained extensive damage.
The fire was discovered by a church member around 5:00 AM as they entered the church to prepare for morning services. The fire originated in a closet where a vacuum cleaner had been stored since 11:00pm Saturday night. Examination of the scene revealed the fire smoldered for an extended period of time and was still confined to the closet when discovered.