Fire Damages St. Petersburg Catholic High School Gymnasium; Lightning Under Investigation
A fire damaged the gymnasium at St. Petersburg Catholic High School on Tuesday afternoon, with officials investigating a possible lightning strike as the cause. No injuries were reported.
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, September 9, 2026 — A fire broke out Tuesday afternoon, causing damage to the gymnasium at St. Petersburg Catholic High School. The extent of the damage is currently being assessed.
Emergency services responded to the incident, which occurred during the afternoon hours. While the gymnasium sustained damage, officials have confirmed that no injuries were reported among students, staff, or any other individuals present at the school.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Preliminary assessments by officials are considering a possible lightning strike as the origin of the blaze. Weather conditions on Tuesday afternoon are being reviewed as part of the investigative process.
The St. Petersburg Fire Department or other relevant authorities are leading the investigation. Details regarding the specific timeline of the fire’s discovery and the response efforts have not been fully disclosed.
The loss of the gymnasium is expected to have an impact on school activities, including athletics and physical education programs. The duration of any necessary repairs or the potential need for temporary facilities will likely be determined following a thorough evaluation of the damage and the ongoing investigation.
Officials stated that further information will be released as the investigation progresses.
Story summarized from the original created by By Tony Marrero, Times staff on www.tampabay.com, see more information here.
