Reward available for leads in church fire

A $10,000 reward has been posted for information leading to the arrest and indictment of the person or persons behind the fire that destroyed a portion of the Ambassador Baptist Church in Whitehouse on Oct. 20.

The Smith County Fire Marshal's office has confirmed the fire was arson.

"Our insurance company, Guide One, is offering the reward in hopes that someone who knows something will come forward," said Lance Browning, deacon and treasurer of the church.

While Smith County Fire Marshal officials have not pinpointed the origin of the fire, accelerant was found in the pastor's office by a specially trained arson canine. The fire spread through several other rooms as well as causing the roof to collapse in the sanctuary.

Services have been moved to the Whitehouse YMCA at 301 Terry Street until further notice.

Anyone with information on person or persons responsible for the fire should contact Smith County Fire Marshal's office at 903-590-2651.