CLINTON HOUSE FIRE CONNECTED TO METHAMPHETAMINE MAKING

CLINTON, Iowa - Authorities believe materials used to make
methamphetamine are what sparked a Clinton house fire, sending out
strong vapors that overtook a firefighter and police officer.

Police Capt. Randy Meier said firefighters battling the blaze at 7
a.m. Wednesday at 245 19th Place discovered materials likely used for
the manufacture of methamphetamine. Firefighter Ryan Stremlow and
police officer Jon Melvin were treated for inhalation of strong
chemical fumes related to the drug.

The investigation led officials to believe two men left the
single-family house, owned by Robert Smith, after the fire ignited
and before firefighters arrived. One of the men might have been
burned. Police said the building's owner is not a suspect in the drug
activity.

"It's very hazardous," Meier said. "We've never had a fire before
associated with a clandestine meth lab, but it's not uncommon."

Fire Battalion Chief Steve Bromley said the fire started in the
kitchen, and probably was caused accidentally. A neighbor noticed the
fire and called for help.

Flames were shooting out of a first-floor window when firefighters
arrived, and the heavy heat and smoke damaged the entire building.
Damage is estimated at $30,000 to the building and $20,000 to the
contents.

It took about 20 minutes to get the raging fire under control. Police
obtained a search warrant to look through the house after the fire
was quelled.

A police team found evidence that "pointed strongly" toward the
operation of a secret meth lab, Meier said.

The firefighter who was exposed to the meth fumes returned to work
Thursday, and the police officer was back on the job Wednesday.

An investigation into the fire and drug production is ongoing, led by
the Clinton Police Department, Clinton Fire Department, Illinois
State Police Blackhawk Area Task Force and the Iowa Division of
Narcotics Enforcement.