July 17, 2001 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2001-47) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-5806/Fax: (251) 208-5813 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org FIRE IN LARGE 2 STORY HOUSE SUSPICIOUS A patron at a nearby service station noticed smoke coming from the rear of a large 2-story, wood frame structure located at 103 South Ann Street, Monday, July 16, 2001 and immediately called 911. Mobile Fire-Rescue Department dispatchers received the call at approximately 7:44 p.m. First fire units arrived at approximately 7:47 p.m. and reported heavy smoke and fire showing from the rear of the structure. Soon after arrival fire officers on the scene called for a second alarm assignment not knowing how far the fire may have already spread into the large structure. Firefighters discovered fire on the first floor and second floor of the structure and immediately when to work to contain and extinguish it. Firefighters did an excellent job of stopping the spread of the fire preventing it from destroying the large house converted into apartments. Estimated damage was $50 thousand. The fire appears to have originated at the rear first story of the structure and extended throughout the rear, including the 2nd floor and then into the attic. The fire extended to the exterior landing and stairway and exterior siding. The cause of the fire remains under investigation but appears to be suspicious in nature. The structure was vacant at the time of the fire and no utilities were apparently hooked up. Robert Bounds is the owner of the property. One person on the scene, Michael Joyner, told Mobile Fire Investigators he was being allowed to stay in the structure by the owner to caretake and safeguard the structure. No injuries were reported. Engines 8, 3, 9, truck 17, rescue 3 and District 1 Chief Martin Stanley responded on the first alarm. Engines 11, 12, truck 4 and District 4 Chief Ed Salva responded on the second alarm assignment. ###