February 22, 2002 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2002-10) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-5806/Fax: (251) 208-5813 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org HOUSE FIRE AT 913 ROWELL STREET No injuries were reported at a house fire located at 913 Rowell Street this Friday morning February 22, 2002. Mobile Fire-Rescue Department received the call at approximately 9:55 a.m. Firefighters arrived at approximately 10:00 a.m. and reported heavy fire and smoke coming from the side of the one-story wood frame with asbestos siding structure. Neighbors reported that the owner, believed to be Shirley Jowres, might be inside the house. Firefighters had to force their way through burglar bars to make initial entry and a search of the house found no one inside. The fire appears to have originated in a rear utility room inside the wall behind a washing machine. The fire spread to the adjacent kitchen and into the attic just above the utility room. There was heat and smoke damage throughout the house. The cause of the fire remains under investigation but appears to be electrical in nature. Estimated damage is approximately $20 thousand. No injuries were reported. Engines 9, 19, 23, truck 24, rescue 23 and District 4 Chief Don Meyers responded. ###