A church partially collapsed Thursday in downtown New London.
At approximately 1:30 p.m., the spire at the First Congregational Church on State and Union streets gave way crashing through the rest of the building.
New London Mayor Michael Passero said first responders searched the wreckage, and to the best of his knowledge, no one has been hurt.
“At this time we do not believe that there’s been any loss of life associated with this incident," Passero said alongside responders at 5 p.m. "We are working diligently to confirm that. But we have good intelligence and surveillance that is keeping us optimistic. However, the site is still being evaluated by engineers and the urban search and rescue team.”
Damage to the church is so extensive it’s believed it will have to be completely demolished.
“We have contract demolition contractor on board waiting for further engineering confirmation that at least the two steeples that remain will have to be taken down immediately and a determination on the rest of the building. Obviously though, as you can see, we’re expecting that this building is a total loss," Passero said.
The church was actively used by faith groups and also has been a refuge for the homeless in the past.
“We have deployed state emergency services personnel and equipment to assist in response efforts," Governor Ned Lamont said in a statement. "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."
This story is developing. Check back for updates.
