Posted on: April 26, 2026 03:24 PM

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Community is still reeling from the church fire in Astoria

April 23 at 6:45pm, a fire broke out at a historic vacant church in Astoria called the First Reformed Church which went on all night resulting in six firefighters with injuries.

As of this weekend, the before and after picture provided by the city's Emergency Management office using drones, the damage is severe. The building dept officials are still in the early stage of discussion whether to restore or demolish.

Most of the residents want to see the church restored but the city has mixed messages which could lead to demolition.

The building department has vacate order for the church as well as nearby homes since it's under potential collapse zone after the heavy fire.

A fence will be added all around for safety while continuing to investigate the cause of fire.

This is one of the oldest Protestant churches in Queens that was built in the 1800's which was a place for events for the community residents.

A decision will be made after what caused the fire by the city. Then a community board meeting to decide the fate of the church.