UPDATE: New Iberia firefighters are still working on the Synagogue.
We've learned that there were no injuries in this morning's fire, and that firefighters were able to save the Synagogue's scrolls from smoke and water damage.
Firefighters removed the scrolls from the Synagogue and kept them safe in their fire truck.
KATC was in New Iberia this morning:
The fire department says a lightning strike may have been the cause of Wednesday's fire at the Synagogue on N. Weeks Street.
Firefighters say the fire and most of the damage was contained to the attic above the altar at the rear of the building. The overall structure did sustain water damage.
The fire department says that most structures with a lighting strike, especially church structures with multiple ceilings and roofs, are often a total loss.
The synagogue, listed on the National Historic Register, was built in 1904.
Firefighters say the age of the building may have saved it from being completely destroyed.
They also say the timing of the fire and the quick response of firefighters may have also played a part in saving the structure.
The fire was brought under control around 10 am.
