Mesa Church Evacuated After Smoke Fills Building During Sunday Service

Photo Courtesy of iSkyNews.com Drone Response Team (DRT)

Staff Reporter | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)

Published August 3rd, 2025

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Smoke Fills Mesa Church During Sunday Service, Prompting Evacuation and Large Fire Response

Mesa, AZ (iSkyNews.com) — A Sunday evening church service quickly turned into a frightening experience for dozens of worshippers after smoke began filling the sanctuary at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints near 2701 E Lehi Rd in Mesa.

Just before 8:00 p.m., Mesa Fire & Medical received a 911 call reporting a possible fire inside the church building. Mesa Police also responded to assist with crowd control and safety.

When the first fire engine arrived, crews initially saw no visible flames or smoke from outside. However, once firefighters entered the building, they found a light haze in the hallways and immediately began investigating the source of the smoke.

Firefighters were able to pinpoint the issue to a burned-out motor in an air handler unit, which had begun to emit smoke through the church’s ventilation system. Mesa Fire upgraded the call to a Working Commercial Fire, prompting a response from at least four fire engines and a Battalion Chief.

Reporters from iSkyNews.com spoke with church members at the scene who had been safely evacuated. Many described the moment as terrifying.

“Suddenly there was this burning smell, and then smoke started coming from the vents,” one member said. “Everyone was scared, but the church leaders moved quickly and calmly to get everyone out.”

Church leaders not only led a smooth evacuation but also ensured that bottled water was provided to those waiting outside in the heat.

Thanks to the quick actions of church staff and firefighters, the fire was extinguished without injuries or serious damage to the building.

Authorities have confirmed that no one was hurt, and the situation was under control shortly after crews arrived.

Community members and emergency responders alike are being praised for their professionalism and swift response.

🙏 Thank you to Mesa Fire & Medical, Mesa Police, and the Church Leadership for their dedication to keeping the community safe.

Stay with iSkyNews.com for continuing coverage of incidents impacting your neighborhood.

Photo Courtesy of iSkyNews.com Drone Response Team (DRT)

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Mesa Church Evacuated After Smoke Fills Building During Sunday Service

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