May 2, 2002 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2002-20) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-5806/Fax: (251) 208-5813 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org ONE INJURED IN HOUSE FIRE Mobile Fire Investigators are currently investigating a fire that occurred at approximately 3:18 a.m. Thursday morning, May 2, 2002 at 2502 Junius Lane off Wolf Ridge Road. When firefighters arrived on the scene they had to cut a lock off a chain which was securing the front gate. Once firefighters made entry they could hear what sounded like children calling for help in an upstairs portion of the structure and rear portion of the 2-story, wood frame residence. Once firefighters worked their way to where the sound appeared to be coming from they discover the sound was coming from identical children's toys. Firefighters continued to search the residence and did find one occupant, who is believed to be Annie Doris Mathews, 57, unconscious on the floor next to the bed in a downstairs bedroom located at the front of the house. The victim was quickly removed from the house and transported by Mobile Firemedics to the University of South Alabama Medical Center for further treatment. Her injuries appeared to be smoke inhalation and firemedics found no signs of burns. She was listed in critical condition upon arrival. Firefighters also found two dogs, one inside and one outside, they appeared unharmed. Fire Investigators found multiple points of origin throughout the house. The structure is large, broken into two distinct areas with upstairs on both sides with a vaulted ceiling in the living room, which is located in the middle of the house. The cause of the fire is suspicious and is still being investigated. No damage estimate is available at this time. No other injuries were reported. Mobile Fire-Rescue Department and Mobile Police Department are jointly investigating the fire. Engines 12, 15, 18, truck 10, rescue 18, Water Tanker 36 and District 3 Chief John D. Young responded. ###