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Tulare Today
By the People, for the People
Tulare Church Destroyed by Fire, Congregation Vows to Continue
Family Baptist Church building deemed a total loss, but pastor says they will meet for Sunday service
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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A fire early Monday morning destroyed the sanctuary of the Family Baptist Church in Tulare, California. While the main building is a total loss, the congregation is determined to continue serving their community and will hold Sunday services at a new location.
Why it matters
The Family Baptist Church has been a community staple in Tulare for 35 years, hosting both English and Spanish language services to bring families together. The fire's destruction of the church building is a significant loss for the congregation and the broader community.
The details
The fire was first noticed by a nearby resident, Susan Maxfield, who could feel the heat from the flames in her backyard. Tulare Fire Battalion Chief Brandon West said the fog was so thick that firefighters couldn't see the flames until they were within feet of the building. About two minutes after arrival, part of the roof collapsed, prompting firefighters to stay out of the building. While the sanctuary was deemed a total loss, crews were able to salvage some musical instruments, electronics, and a few Bibles.
- The fire broke out early Monday morning.
- Firefighters arrived on the scene shortly after the fire was first noticed.
The players
Family Baptist Church
A church in Tulare, California that has served the community for 35 years, hosting both English and Spanish language services.
Susan Maxfield
A nearby resident who recorded the fire burning through the roof of the church.
Brandon West
Tulare Fire Battalion Chief who led the firefighting efforts.
Samuel Gray
Senior Pastor of the Family Baptist Church.
What they’re saying
“We're going to continue, we'll meet Sunday. We don't know where yet, but we will be meeting Sunday and continue to serve our community.”
— Samuel Gray, Senior Pastor (yourcentralvalley.com)
“Approximately the size of an eight-foot square hole was already coming through the roof.”
— Brandon West, Tulare Fire Battalion Chief (yourcentralvalley.com)
“Approximately two minutes after arrival, we had some partial roof collapse, which is an indication for us to stay out of the building at that point.”
— Brandon West, Tulare Fire Battalion Chief (yourcentralvalley.com)
What’s next
Tulare fire crews will remain on the scene throughout the night, taking the building apart layer by layer to investigate the cause of the fire. Arson has not been ruled out.
The takeaway
The destruction of the Family Baptist Church building is a significant loss for the Tulare community, but the congregation's determination to continue serving their community and hold Sunday services demonstrates the resilience of this long-standing institution.
