St. James the Greater Catholic Church in Hopewell catches fire

May 15, 2025 - 15:27

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St. James the Greater Catholic Church in Hopewell catches fire

HOPEWELL, Va. (WRIC) -- A Catholic church in Hopewell is extensively damaged after officials said it caught fire Wednesday evening.

According to officials, Hopewell Fire and EMS and Chesterfield Fire and EMS crews responded to a fire at St. James the Greater Catholic Church at 510 West Poythress St. just before 10 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14.

The blaze was reportedly contained to the building, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings.

Officials said the church was extensively damaged, but no one was inside at the time and there were no reported injuries.

Firefighters arrived on the scene within four minutes of being dispatched, where they noticed heavy smoke and visible flames.

(Photo: Chesterfield County Fire and EMS)

A spokesperson for Chesterfield County Fire and EMS said its crews sometimes assist in responding to calls in neighboring cities and counties when additional resources are needed.

Chesterfield's crews that responded to the church fire consisted of Engine 218, Truck 214, Battalion Chief 202, Safety Officer 201 and the Mobile Ventilation Unit.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the City of Hopewell Fire Marshal's Office. Anyone with tips or information is asked to call the office at 804-541-2290.