The Riverton Fire Department was called to the 300 block of Penn Street at around 10:15 a.m. on August 2 due to reports of downed wires and a potential utility pole fire.

Engine 2412 was diverted to Fourth Street close to the church while the investigation was ongoing. Crews discovered a burning utility pole with smoldering debris that had fallen into the basement window wells of the church and ignited other material at the pole's base.

The Burlington County Fire Marshal's Office and the Palmyra Fire Department were asked for more personnel. Crews verified that there was neither structural damage nor an extension into the church. Firefighters carried out overhaul operations to put out any residual hot spots when the utility company secured the power.