By Justin Muszynski
Hartford Courant
NEW LONDON, Conn. — Emergency crews responded to a building collapse at an old church in New London on Thursday afternoon.
Police and firefighters were dispatched to Engaging Heaven Church, which shares space with First Congregational Church at 66 Union St. sometime before 2 p.m. after the roof of the building collapsed, according to the New London Police Department.
According to a Facebook post, there was no one believed to be inside the church at the time.
U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D-2, issued a statement saying, “I spoke to New London Mayor (Michael) Passero who described a strong, thorough effort by first responders to make sure that first reports of no injury are confirmed. Our office will continue to monitor developments and we stand ready to help if federal assistance is needed.”
Police asked the public to steer clear of the area and avoid Union, Masonic and State streets as well as Eugene O’Neill Drive and Gov. Winthrop Boulevard.
Gov. Ned Lamont Thursday said he is aware of the collapse of a church and is in contact with emergency officials.
“I am in communication with State Police and emergency management officials regarding the church collapse in New London and we have deployed state emergency services personnel and equipment to assist in response efforts,” Lamont said.
“I urge everyone in the area to follow the direction of law enforcement and other first responders who are working to keep the community safe,” he said.
WFSB reported that it occurred “at the First Congregational Church on Union Street .”
Additional details were not immediately available.
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