it broke out at the church on macarthur avenue and oakland boulevard. >> as flames appeared to engulf the first black church in the area, the pastor watched hopelessly from across the street. >> i'm at a loss for words. i don't even know what to say. >> the fire was first reported around 11 sunday night outside the first african methodist episcopal church, also known as fame which has deep >> roots in oakland. this church is about the people, about the people of this community, the people of the east bay, the people who love oakland. fame has a strong, rich history and we are about community. >> but it wasn't long until flames spread to the roof and turned into a three alarm fire. >> there was an event that should have ended around 1 p.m.. they are working with the fire department to discuss any issues they've had recently. there should have been no one in the building. >> as daylight broke, church leaders seen removing a few paintings untouched but the view from above shows the grim reality of what is left on the church while the four exterior walls are mostly intact, the roof is des