Local News
Fire Engulfs Historic Clayborn Temple in Memphis, Threatening Surrounding Buildings
Memphis, Tenn. — A major fire has broken out at the historic Clayborn Temple, located at 294 Hernando Street, near the FedExForum in downtown Memphis.
Authorities say the blaze, which began earlier this evening, is rapidly spreading to neighboring buildings, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Clayborn Temple, originally known as Second Presbyterian Church, is a landmark of immense historical and architectural significance.
Built in the late 19th century, it has served as a symbol of the civil rights movement and was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 for its architectural and cultural importance.
Memphis Fire Department crews are on scene battling the flames.
Multiple engine companies have been deployed in an effort to contain the fire and prevent further spread to adjacent structures.
Residents and businesses in the immediate area have been advised to evacuate as a precaution.
The full extent of the damage to Clayborn Temple and nearby buildings has not yet been determined.
No injuries have been reported at this time, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
City officials and preservation advocates have expressed deep concern over the potential loss of such a significant historical site.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Local News
11-Year-Old Girl Critically Injured After Being Struck by Ambulance Near SLAM Charter School in Little Havana
MIAMI, FLORIDA — Authorities in Miami are investigating a departmental crash that occurred Friday morning in Little Havana, where an 11-year-old girl was struck by a Miami Fire Rescue ambulance responding to an emergency call with a patient on board.
The incident took place around 542 NW 12th Avenue, near SLAM Miami Charter School and just blocks from LoanDepot Park, according to Miami Police.
Witnesses at the scene reported that the child was crossing the street in a marked crosswalk on her way to school when the ambulance—identified as Rescue 4—approached the intersection with its emergency lights activated.
According to witnesses, the vehicle appeared to be traveling at a high rate of speed en route to the hospital when it struck the girl.
Emergency crews immediately rendered aid, and the victim, who sustained severe traumatic injuries, was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Her current condition has not been released.
In a statement, SLAM Miami Charter School confirmed that the injured child is one of their students and said the school is in contact with the family and providing ongoing support and counseling resources to students and staff affected by the incident.
“It was a shocking scene,” one witness told reporters, describing the moments following the impact as chaotic and emotional.
Miami Police confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances of the crash.
Authorities have temporarily closed NW 12th Avenue between NW 4th and NW 7th Streets while investigators process the scene.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes as the investigation continues.