June 27, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2007-41) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org FIRE INVESTIGATORS SEEKING POTENTIAL WITNESS Investigators with the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department are investigating a possible arson fire and seeking a potential witness to the crime that occurred at 1455 Houston Street on Wednesday morning, June 27. The call was received at approximately 6:20 a.m. and firefighters arrived at approximately 6:24 a.m. reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from the rear and carport area of the one-story, wood frame structure. Fire Investigators are seeking a potential male witness, who was riding a motorcycle that may have seen a potential suspect at the rear of the structure just prior to the fire occurring. Fire Investigators are asking that witness or any other witnesses to contact them at 208-7311 or 208-7484. The occupants Ashley Quinnie, 30, a female friend age 31 and four children ranging from ages 6-11 all escaped the fire unharmed. According to Quinnie she had been having domestic problems prior to the fire. The fire appears to have originated in a rear utility/laundry room and spread to the attic and carport area. There was smoke and some heat damage inside the structure. No damage estimate is available at this time. Engines 8, 9, 23, truck 17, rescue 23, and District 1 Chief John Young responded. Mobile Fire-Rescue Department Bureau of Fire Prevention is investigating the fire. ###