BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The city of Bucyrus has taken proactive measures to ensure public safety around Good Hope Lutheran Church, placing barricades at the corners of Charles and Poplar Streets.

The decision was made following a visit to the church by Bucyrus Mayor Bruce Truka and Safety Service Director Tommy Starner, at the request of Randy Fischer and Good Hope Lutheran Church.

The church’s steeple, which was damaged during the tornado that hit Bucyrus in April, is suspected to pose a safety risk. The steeple, primarily constructed of wood with a stone base resting on a brick foundation, was twisted in a northeast direction during the tornado, raising concerns about the integrity of its foundation.

In response to the situation, structural engineers are expected to assess the steeple and determine the best course of action. This may involve dismantling the steeple piece by piece as early as next week.

As a precautionary measure, barricades have been put in place and individuals are urged to respect them while walking in the area.

Randy Fischer responded to Crawford County Now with the following:

“Good Hope Lutheran Church has confirmed that there is unrepairable damage to our Steeple sustained from the April 17th tornado. After much investigation and inspection, the structural engineer has recommended that the steeple be taken down.  The church is still open, but the building itself will be closed until it is deemed safe. Sunday worship services will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, 125 S. Poplar St. from 8:00-9:00 A.M.  Beyond the immediacy to take down the steeple, the timeline is unknown. However, we will endeavor to proceed as quickly as possible.  Messages can be left at 419-562-0286 and someone will return the call.”

From Lauren Adkins, Community Engagement Minister at Good Hope Lutheran Church:

*Because of the April 17th tornado that came through Bucyrus, Good Hope Lutheran Church sustained confirmed damage to its steeple.

*After much investigation and inspection, the structural engineer recommended that the steeple be taken down.

*The church is still open but the building itself will be closed until it is deemed safe.

*Sunday worship services will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, 125 S. Poplar Street from 8:00-9:00 AM.

*Beyond the immediacy to take down the steeple, the timeline is unknown. Messages can be left at 419-562-0286 and someone will return the call.