Medical officials confirmed yesterday the identity of a man killed in an Elkridge fire, but fire officials said they were still uncertain what caused the fatal incident.
Howard County police said John Jacobs, 46, of Florida was identified by his fingerprints. Mr. Jacobs' body was burned beyond recognition during a fire late Friday afternoon in the 5800 block of Race Road.
Deputy Chief State Fire Marshal Allen L. Ward said investigators are trying to determine whether the fire was started by arson or by accident. Mr. Jacobs lived in the two-story home with his friend, Diane Border, 46, also of Florida, and the property's owner, police said.
Neighbors told police that the Florida couple were arguing before the fire, and that a small kerosene heater was thrown during the fight.
Smoke alarm sounds, family flees blaze
A family of five fled from their Ellicott City home after a smoke alarm warned them of flames in a second-floor bedroom, Howard County fire officials said.
Firefighters responded to the burning house in the 4600 block of Dower Drive at 5:30 p.m. Monday. The two adults and three children in the home were not injured, fire officials said.
The fire, which caused damage estimated at $125,000, is being investigated by the state fire marshal's office, fire officials said.
POLICE LOG
* Ellicott City: 8800 block of Columbia 100 Parkway: Computers and equipment were stolen from Image America Friday or Saturday after burglars threw a brick through the front glass door to enter, police said.