IROQUOIS COUNTY -- Several area fire departments are on the scene of a church fire in Schwer. No injury was reported, but there is substantial damage done to St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church at 1130 N and 1812 E Road, northwest of Milford.

The fire started in the bell tower of the church. The cause is unknown. One of the church's trustees, Bob Buhr, tells WGFA News a few parishioners noticed the fire as they were leaving the church around 12:30 pm after a funeral. Buhr said much of the main church was damaged along with the church annex. Firemen were busy trying to save the parish hall.

Firemen from Milford, Cissna Park, Stockland, Wellington, Woodland, Sheldon, Watseka and Hoopeston were on the scene, according to Milford Fireman Fred Hines.

94.1 FM, WGFA