By By Lydia Grimes – features reporter
Arson may be blamed for a Friday afternoon fire that remains under investigation by fire and law enforcement officials, Escambia County Sheriff Grover Smith said.
When firefighters arrived on the scene, witnesses suggested there might be a resident in the house. However, Smith said the home was unoccupied at the time. Although the house was empty, it was suggested that Chris Miller has been staying there in the home that belongs to his mother.
Brewton Fire Chief Lawrence Weaver said a number of factors gives officials reason to believe the fire could have been arson.
Seven Brewton firefighters responded to the fire just before 1 p. m., according to Brewton Fire Captain Robert Crenshaw.
Flare-ups and additional hot spots called firefighters back to the scene late Friday afternoon, officials said.
There were no injuries in the fire and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information concerning the couple who were seen at the fire location should contact the Escambia County Sheriff's Department at 867-0304 or any other law enforcment agency.