September 3, 2001 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2001-57) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-5806/Fax: (251) 208-5813 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE FOUR ALARM MOTEL FIRE Mobile Firefighters were called to an early morning fire Monday, September 3, 2001 at the Travel Inn located at 1724 Michigan Avenue. Motel Management reported the fire at approximately 2:04 a.m. First arriving firefighters reported heavy fire and smoke showing from the rear of the Motel and requested a 2nd alarm response be sounded. Shortly after at approximately 2:15 a.m. a 3rd alarm assignment was requested followed later by a 4th alarm. In all approximately 14 Mobile Fire-Rescue Units responded with approximately 60 firefighters. The fire appears to have originated in a rear section of the motel, which housed approximately 48 units, which were not occupied at the time of the fire. The Motel Managers father, Tony Dang, 55, was injured and transported to the University of South Alarm for treatment of 2nd and 3rd degree burns to the face, arms and legs as well as heat inhalation injuries. Dang was reportedly burned over 55-60 % of his body and listed in critical condition. The manager of the Motel My Dang, told fire investigators that only 48 of the estimated 150 rooms were occupied. All the guest was evacuated without incident. Although an exact count of guest was not established at least 10 guest advised they needed assistance in finding somewhere to stay. The Salvation Army was on the scene assisting those needing placement. Mobile Fire Investigators on the scene found indications that the fires origin may have been intentional. The fire remains under investigation. No damage estimate is available at this time. No other injuries were reported. Responding on the 1st alarm were Engines 9, 11, 16, truck 24, rescue 24 and District 1 Chief Martin Stanley. 2nd alarm was Engines 3, 8, truck 17, rescue 3 and District 4 Chief Harold Miller. 3rd alarm assignment was Engines 12, 23, truck 4, and a number of other District Chiefs. 4th alarm assignment was Engines 2, 18 and Truck 10. ###