Darlington County, SC — A devastating fire broke out Saturday at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, a historic place of worship deeply rooted in the Darlington County community. According to the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), deputies responded swiftly to reports of a blaze at the church and arrived to find the structure fully engulfed in flames.
The fire has left the community reeling, especially given the historical significance of the church, which was founded in 1869 by Reverend Daniel Jesse shortly after the Civil War. Pleasant Grove Baptist Church has stood for over 150 years as a symbol of faith, resilience, and community for generations of South Carolinians. It is considered one of the oldest churches in the region, with a legacy that reflects a long-standing tradition of spiritual leadership and service.
A Coordinated Investigation Underway
The fire prompted a rapid response from the Darlington County Fire District, who worked alongside deputies to contain the flames. As of Saturday evening, officials have not released any information on whether the fire is considered suspicious, but the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has joined the investigation to determine the cause and origin of the blaze.
“The investigation is active and ongoing,” a spokesperson for the DCSO said in a brief statement. “We are working closely with fire officials and SLED to understand how this tragic event occurred.”
So far, no injuries have been reported, and no arrests have been made. The full extent of the damage to the church has not yet been assessed, but witnesses say the structure appeared to suffer extensive fire damage, possibly beyond repair.
Community Response: A Legacy at Risk
The loss of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church is more than physical—it’s deeply emotional for many in the local community. Generations of families have worshipped there, been baptized there, married there, and laid loved ones to rest under its roof. Its destruction has triggered a wave of sorrow and reflection.
“I was married in that church, and so were my parents,” said longtime member Evelyn Johnson, who rushed to the scene upon hearing the news. “It’s more than a building. It’s where we found peace, unity, and hope. My heart is broken.”
Others gathered near the scene, some in tears, watching helplessly as flames consumed a cornerstone of their heritage.
Local leaders and church elders have expressed their intent to rebuild if possible, and support from neighboring congregations has already begun to pour in. “This is a time for unity and prayer,” said one pastor from a nearby church. “The building may be gone, but the church—the people—are still standing.”
A Call for Information
As the investigation continues, the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have been in the area or who has information about the fire to come forward. Investigators are particularly interested in eyewitness accounts, security footage, or reports of suspicious activity near the church on Saturday morning.
Tips can be shared directly with DCSO at (843) 398-4501, or through Crime Stoppers of the Pee Dee at 1-888-CRIME-SC, where anonymous information can be provided.
Moving Forward
Though much remains unknown, what’s clear is that the destruction of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church is a significant loss for the Darlington County community—historically, spiritually, and emotionally. As firefighters continue to monitor the site and investigators comb through the ashes, one thing remains certain: the spirit of the congregation and its legacy of more than 150 years will not be extinguished by fire.
More details will be released as the investigation develops. Stay with local news outlets and official channels for updates.
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