At approximately 12:43 p.m. on January 8th, 2013 DeFuniak Springs Police and DeFuniak Springs Fire Department responded to a residential fire at 141 Morris Drive.
Upon the two agencies arrival the resident later identified as Timothy M. Herring was found outside of the residence suffering from severe burns to his legs. Herring was transported by ambulance to the DeFuniak Springs Municipal Airport where he was flown by helicopter to Sacred Heart Hospital of Pensacola, Florida. After a short time at Sacred Heart Hospital, he was taken by helicopter to Shands Burn Center in Gainesville, Florida.
Members from the DeFuniak Springs Police assisted in securing the scene as members from the fire department worked diligently fighting the hot flames that had fully engulfed the residence prior to their arrival. Per protocol the State Fire Marshal’s Office was contacted by officials.
During the extinguishing of the fire suspicious items were found that enhanced the possibility that the fire had started while Herring was performing a criminal act.
After the fire had been extinguished members from the DeFuniak Springs Police partnered with the State Fire Marshal’s Office in the investigation. Items found during the investigation are consistent with items used to manufacture methamphetamines. All items were located in the area where the fire started. Charges pending further investigation.
Lieutenant Tilman Mears
Criminal Investigations Division Commander
mearstf@defuniakspringspolice.net