Church Fire Was Accidental
August 4, 2026, 11:47 p.m.

The area where a fire occurred at Overcoming Believers Church. Image courtesy of Knoxville Fire Department

KNOXVILLE - On Monday, July 27, at approximately 9:25 a.m., emergency crews responded to reports of smoke coming from Overcoming Believers Church, located at 211 Harriet Tubman Street.

Following an investigation by the Knoxville Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit, it was determined that the fire originated in a wall-mounted heating and air conditioning unit, located in the dining area of the building. There is no evidence of suspicious activity related to the incident, and investigators have classified the fire as accidental.

The fire damage in the dining area was significant; however, the fire was largely confined to that portion of the building, limiting damage to other areas of the facility. Church leadership has indicated that ministry operations and community outreach efforts will continue as recovery and restoration work progresses.

The Knoxville Fire Department would like to remind residents and business owners of the importance of properly maintaining heating and cooling equipment, and having electrical appliances regularly inspected and serviced according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

No injuries were reported as a result of the fire. Church officials and the Knoxville Fire Department are appreciative of the support shown by the community during the recovery process.

Donations to help with damages caused by the fire can be made at overcomingbelieverschurch.org.