Fire destroys LDS Church in Swan Valley

A church in Swan Valley is being called a total loss after a fire tore through the building Tuesday afternoon.

The fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel started around 2 p.m. after someone saw smoke coming from the building.

Local church leaders said the fire started in the clerk’s office and was initially contained to the attic. After about 15 minutes, the main structure caught fire and it spread fast to the rest of the building.

Local people said they were shocked and saddened by what happened.

“It’s really hard to watch it. It’s been a mainstay in this valley,” said a Swan Valley resident.

Residents said this was more than just a church it was a part of life.

“It’s been a mainstay in the valley for a long time,” said Gordon Gallup. “People have driven by here for years. It’s a big hot spot in the summer time, a lot of summer members come. Really pretty sad,” said Gallup.

“”We’ve got two chapels and that’s it. We’ve got the chapel of the Valley and the LDS chapel. And the two of us coordinate things and do things together in the valley. It’s part of our social life,” said Gallup.

Firefighters had to deal with temperatures in the teens and the wind chill made it even colder.

Several fire departments helped with fighting the fire. They included Swan Valley, Jefferson County, Bonneville Fire District, Ammon, and Madison.

In the meantime, church members will have to find another place to go to church.

As of Tuesday night, the fire was still smoldering and considered hazardous. As soon as it safe enough fire investigators will begin to determine what started the fire.

Fire officials say everyone should stay off the property until further notice for their own safety.