In the early morning hours of New Year’s Day, Brownwood Fire Department responded to reports of a fire at a vacant church building located at Cleburne and Elm Streets in Brownwood.

Around 12:45am, witnesses reported the church was in flames and initial reports were that a man or juveniles may have been involved; however after investigation that was not the case.

Brownwood Fire Marshal Buddy Preston stated Tuesday that his investigation found that fireworks were most likely the cause.  He said that he found parts of a rocket and another firework which was labeled “white strobe” that had landed in tall grass igniting a fire on the outside edge of the building.

Preston stated that the investigation was complete; however, he was taking Nika the arson dog back to the scene for some training later Tuesday morning.

“I’m going to take Nika back over to the church to work her.  I don’t suspect she will find anything else, it’s just a good chance to work her in the ashes.”

The building sustained significant damage from the smoke and fire, but no injuries were reported.

Brownwood Police Department also responded to the area and searched the neighborhood for possible suspects.