Church to rebuild burned Jesus statue

MONROE, Ohio (WDTN) - A large statue of Jesus that has been seen by millions across the country was destroyed by a fire late Monday night.

The King of Kings statue that stood outside the Solid Rock Church located on Union Road just off Interstate 75 is now in ruins. Only a few wire frames are still standing.

Officials are still investigating, but lightning is likely what sparked the blaze. The fire also damaged the attic of the church's amphitheater.

Church officials say it will cost $700,00 to resurrect the giant Jesus.

Word of the fire spread quickly. Many church members couldn't believe what had happened and came to see for themselves.

What they found left them shocked and saddened.

"This is not right," a church member named Gifty says. "We just all have to go on our faith and ask God. This cannot be a coincidence."

"I was pretty upset," Andy Caudill says. "Seeing a big thing of our Lord and Savior gone. It's pretty sad."

The statue was built in 2004. The 42-foot span between its outstretched arms grabbed the attention of motorists as they drove by it.

A sign along the highway reads "We will rebuild".