CITY OF LAWRENCE

LAWRENCE DOUGLAS COUNTY FIRE MEDICAL

Sunday, September 17, 2006

Updated at 7:25p.m

CONTACT: Mark Bradford, Fire Chief

Or Lisa Patterson, communications manager (785) 764-2892

Evening update on activities at 1205 New Jersey

(Lawrence, Ks) – Fire Chief Mark Bradford began this evening’s media briefing with the following statement, “A family has experienced a tragic loss of lives today. The Lawrence community expresses our deepest sympathy to the family.”

The coroner’s office has provided a positive identification of fire victims Charles Glover, Sr, a 66 year old male and Mariyana Johnson, a thirteen month old female. Three individuals remain unaccounted for and one survivor is conscious and hospitalized.

Crews will remain on the scene and work throughout the night to secure and enter the house to determine if individuals are inside. That continues to be the priority.

The neighborhood is asked for its patience and understanding during the night as lights and sound will be a part of the overnight activities.

Operations review of the day

Work continues to stabilize the structure so that crews can enter the house. Removal of some pieces of the structure is necessary to establish a safe entry for personnel. Standard preparations for demolish work have been completed including disconnection of the natural gas, electrical, phone and cable service.

As part of the continuing origin and cause investigation, an accelerant canine has been working on the scene. This ATF trained dog has been provided by Topeka Fire. A dog is routinely brought into an investigation when there is extensive damage. The dog’s purpose today is to help determine the origin of the fire.

Other agencies have provided assistance today. The State Fire Marshal’s office has contributed personnel as well as Topeka Fire Prevention Division, the ATF, and Lawrence Police Department and Douglas County Sheriff.

The community, including the Red Cross and numerous local businesses, has also been very supportive.