No foul play suspected in fire death

Published 5:52 pm Wednesday, February 5, 2020

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An autopsy has determined a weekend fire death on County Road 190 over the weekend was accidental, according to a press release from the East Alabama Fire District.

Herman Brown, 75, died in the fire. According to the press release, Brown was removed from the structure quickly and medical treatment was rendered, but he later passed away at EAMC Lanier.

The EAFC responded around 1:55 a.m. ET Saturday morning and found the fire well involved on a single wide mobile home. Firefighters entered the residence through a window and found Brown.

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During the investigation, it was determined a neighbor returning home witnessed the home burning and immediately called 911. Investigators with the East Alabama Fire District and Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted a preliminary onsite investigation the morning of the fire. The initial investigation yielded supporting evidence of a probable electrical fire.

Though an adjacent home recently caught fire on the property, EAFD said there is no reason to believe foul play is suspected in either case.

The press release asks anyone doing electrical work to use a certified electrician.

“Please remember when conducting electrical work on your home to always have a certified electrician to conduct the work or if you suspect a problem, have a certified electrician inspect it,” the press release said. “Also, ensure your home is equipped with a working smoke alarm.”