December 27, 2001 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2001-81) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-5806/Fax: (251) 208-5813 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org HOUSE FIRE CLAIMS ONE LIFE Mobile firefighters were called to respond to a house fire located at 1336 Lola Street, this Thursday morning, December 27, 2001. The call was received by cell phone at approximately 6:10 a.m. from a passerby, Lindsey Blunt III, who attempted to make entry into the house after discovering the fire. When firefighters arrived they reported heavy fire and smoke coming from a side window of the one-story, wood frame structure. Firefighters had to force their way into the house and found the front room fully engulfed with flames. They found the victim, Cora Lee Glover (60-70 years of age) inside the door, she had already succumbed to the smoke and fire. Blunt told Mobile Fire Investigators that he was bringing home a co-worker when he noticed the fire. He attempted to get inside but the door was blocked but could hear Glover calling for help. Blunt called 911 with his cell phone at that time. The fire appears to have originated in the middle bedroom on the North wall between the wall and bed. The fire spread throughout the structure and into the attic above. The exact cause of the fire is not yet determined but investigators found multiple extension cords and candles near the fires origin. There were some electric space heaters also found but none were plugged in. Fire Investigators found two of the burners in the "on" position on the electric stove but ruled those out as the possible cause. It appears that none of the gas appliances were being used and investigators feel Glover may have been using the stove to keep warm. Glover was found with what appears to be a mop suggesting she may have attempted to extinguish the fire with it. Realizing she couldn't do so, she may have fled trying to escape through the front door but the door was blocked and the smoke and heat knocked her unconscious. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Damage is estimated at $20 thousand. No injuries were reported. Engines 3, 8, 14, truck 17, rescue 3 and District 1 Chief Mark Hansberry responded. ###