By By Adam Prestridge
As fire consumed his home Monday afternoon, 89-year-old William Lewis Sr. sat on a stool in his front yard watching decades of memories go up in smoke, while family members rushed to the scene.
At approximately 4:15 p.m., the home located at 164 1/2 Harris St. was engulfed in flames as firefighters arrived on the scene to douse the burning structure. After nearly an hour, the flames were under control, but Lewis’ 45-year-old home was a total loss.
Family members arrived at the scene one-by-one offering comfort to their loved one and reminiscing about the “good times” they had at the home.
Atmore fire chief Gerry McGhee said it has not been determined what caused the fire, but said some typical safety measures slowed firefighters down at the scene.
Eleven firemen including McGhee and assistant chief Mike Staples fought the fire. Two engines, a service truck and a brush truck were used to extinguish the blaze. Officers with the Atmore Police Department also assisted, as well as, paramedics with Kelley’s Ambulance Service.
Sports Editor Chandler Myers contributed to this story.