February 19, 2015 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2015-08) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org FATAL FIRE VAN DORN STREET Mobile Firefighters responded to a fatal fire on Van Dorn Street Thursday morning, February 19. The call was received at approximately 7:07 a.m. When firefighters arrived they reported heavy fire and smoke coming from two front windows of the single story structure. Firefighters quickly made entry and discovered heavy fire in the front bedroom and knocked down the fire. Once the fire was knocked down they discovered the 84-year-old female occupant who had been claimed by the fire. It appears she may have tried to escape but once she stood up the heat and smoke most likely knocked her unconscious. There were several possible causes none appeared to be intentional and the cause remains undetermined at this time. The fire originated in the bedroom where the occupant, who lives alone, was in. There was heat and smoke damage throughout causing an estimated $40 thousand in damage. Engines 8, 9, 16; truck 24; rescue 23 and District Chief Frank Byrd responded to the call. The Bureau of Fire Prevention is conducting the fire investigation. ###