[Press Release] : Firefighters respond to evening fire update

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Duty - Public Information Officer - (573) 499-7035

Firefighters respond to evening fire update 

COLUMBIA, MO (October 26, 2008) - Columbia firefighters were called at
6:43 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 26, to 3615 Monterey for a report of a
residential structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find light smoke
coming from the home. The occupants of the home were at home at the time
of the fire. Preliminary reports indicate that the fire began in the
kitchen. One occupant suffered very minor burn injuries to one hand, was
treated by firefighters and paramedics on scene, but refused additional
medical treatment. 

Firefighters knocked down a fire in the kitchen in less than five
minutes. 

The tenant, Shawna Lewis, 27, and her daughter and a niece were at home
when Lewis placed a skillet and some oil on the stovetop to heat. Lewis
left the residence for a few minutes to go down the street. Minutes
later, Lewis’ daughter and niece noticed smoke in the residence, left
the home, located Lewis and alerted her to the fire. Lewis entered the
residence and found the oil in the skillet on fire and fire extending to
the cabinets. Lewis grasped the skillet, which was on fire and carried
it outdoors where some of the oil spilled on her right hand. She was
treated on the scene and refused additional medical attention. 

Fire investigators concluded, based on evidence and Lewis’
statements, that the fire began on the kitchen stove and the cause was
unattended cooking. Damage to the structure and contents is estimated at
$15,000. Smoke alarms in the residence did not appear to be functional.

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