January 9, 2001

PRESS RELEASE

To: Newsroom

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Public Information Officer

Phone: 673-6652, cell: 455-2609, page: 675-2137

Arsonist Tries to Torch Vacant Mooretown House

Neighbors reported someone running from the residence moments before seeing smoke - Fire department crews responded to 2737 West College after smoke was reported coming from the back of the dilapidated two story vacant structure. Upon arrival, firefighters found the back corner of the home on fire. The fire traveled from its origin, which appeared to be the ground floor, up through the wood flanks of the home’s exterior and into the attic before being noticed.

The fire was quickly extinguished by one fire line but officials are saying had more time passed before the fire was noticed they could be looking at a whole different situation. " Had the fire had a little more time to develop or the neighbors not noticed the smoke, we would probably be dealing with a major fire," says Captain Robert Hammond. The official cause of the fire is under investigation.

Unidentified neighbors in the area stated that the property had been slated for demolition or repair by the owner. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported.

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