August 10, 2014 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2014-31) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org FIRE DESTROYS TWO STORY VACANT HOUSE Firefighters are still on the scene of a house fire, located at McDonald Ave, which occurred at approximately 4:50 a.m. Sunday, August 10. When firefighters arrived on scene they reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the first and second levels of the two-story brick veneer structure. Firefighters forced entry and discovered the terracotta roof had collapsed into the second floor and heavily damaged the interior stairwell. While working on the second level of the structure the floor presented signs that it may collapse and all personnel were evacuated outside to continue firefighting operations. Additional units were dispatched to provide manpower. Fire investigators were told the residence has been vacant for approximately two years. There were still a number of items inside and utilities were still connected to the structure. Fire investigators have not been able to make entry to conduct an investigation so the cause remains under investigation at this time. Damage is estimated at approximately $200 thousand. No injuries were reported. Engines 2, 3, 8, 9, 11; trucks 4, 17; rescue 23 and District Chief John Young responded to the fire. The Bureau of Fire Prevention is conducting the investigation. ###