Possible lightning strike causes fire at Arkansas church
Apr 05, 2025
CRITTENDEN COUNTY, Ark. -- WREG's Team 3 coverage was in Crittenden County, where there was significant flooding and a church caught on fire due to a possible lightning strike.
Residents throughout Crittenden County have had quite a severe weather day, from battling a fire to avoiding flooded str
eets, which came after the latest rounds of storms left many people on edge.
Severe storms and tornado risk
"I have been sitting here for about two and a half hours watching my church burn down because we have not had enough water pressure," said Bishop Kenneth Taylor.
Celebrating 160 years later this year, Bishop Taylor leads Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church and said it's been heartbreaking to learn from West Memphis Fire that a possible lightning strike set his church on fire.
Fire at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist ChurchFire at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist ChurchFire at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church
Besides the lack of water pressure, Bishop Taylor said crews had to fight more than just the elements.
"They pull the ceilings out, no fire, another ceiling," he said. "So, he said that in between the two, that's where the blaze was and they couldn't get to it."
The City of West Memphis also experienced heavy flooding, which led to several roads shutting down.
"You just have to be very careful, come very slow through the water," Jammie Johnson said. "You know, I ain't driving my car. I drive the truck."
When our WREG Weather Experts said that this is generational flooding when it comes the amount of rainfall that Arkansas has seen, the evidence could be seen throughout the county.
"In the history of the city, this is the most rain that has ever happened in the history of the city," said Earle, Arkansas Mayor Jaylen Smith.
Midtown residents express concern as flooding stops them from leaving home
Mayor Smith said about 25 people had to be evacuated as water rose.
The storms brought city-wide flooding and now, he's hoping the city's infrastructures hold.
"When we normally see a lot, a lot of rain, those sewer and water issues start to happen," Mayor Smith said. "But [I'm] so grateful we have not seen that, but hopefully all this water leave the city. We pray that we don't have any major damages."
But back in West Memphis, Bishop Taylor said he will maintain his faith as he makes his next steps.
"I think I cried enough tears today, I got some more to cry, but there will be glory after this," he said.
Bishop Taylor said on Sunday, he may have to have a virtual service as they assess the damage to his church. ...read more read less