DOTHAN, AL - The Dothan Fire Department has concluded the investigation into the fire that occurred at 205 Ginnalou Drive on January 7, 2013. Investigators from the Fire Department along with State Fire Marshals and Dothan Police have ruled the cause of the fire to be undetermined. According to Fire Marshal, Chris Etheredge, “Investigators have been able to determine the area of origin however; the exact cause cannot be determined.”
The fire that lead to this tragedy, that killed two and injured three more, started in the carport area of the home. Investigators were able to identify this area as where the fire originated and have been able to rule out a number of ignition sources. “With the amount of damage and the item(s) first ignited completely consumed by fire, the exact cause cannot be identified,” concluded Etheredge. The investigation is complete at this time barring any new information or evidence that may arise.
Those injured include, Melissa Harvey (30), Jermaine Harvey (30), and Leonard Harvey (59). All three were transported to local hospitals as a result of their injuries and two were later transferred to Birmingham for further treatment. Fatally injured in the home were: Byron Harvey (4) and Ariel Harvey (1).
“Our thoughts continue to be with the Harvey family as they go through this time in their lives,” says Dothan Fire Chief Larry Williams. Chief Williams reminds all citizens to “ensure you have working smoke detectors in your home and that you practice your exit plan with your family.” These two simple actions significantly increase your chances of surviving a fire in your home.