Van Crashes into Church Building in Danbury

DANBURY, CT — A van crashed into a church building on Sunday evening, the Danbury Fire Department has reported.

The Danbury 911 Center received a report of the crash at 6:20 p.m. First responders to 39 New Street in Danbury found a full-sized van had crashed into the building there owned by the Philadelphia Pentecostal Church and used as a rectory. The van had struck the building and caused considerable damage including structural supports to the second floor, the report from the Fire Department said.

Danbury EMS checked out the van's driver, who was uninjured.

"Danbury firefighters under command of Deputy Chief Bernie Meehan utilized their rescue skills and specialized tools to shore up the house to prevent further damage from collapse," the department posted on social media.

Firefighters secured the water and electrical services, following which the building was inspected by the Fire Marshal’s Office and an official from the City of Danbury Building Department official. The city official who also met with representatives from the church to lead them through their restoration process.