WTOC, Savannah, Georgia, news, weather and sports | Meth lab found at mobile home blaze
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By Michelle Paynter - bio | email
SAVANNAH, GA (WTOC) - A mother was arrested and her newborn daughter was taken to the hospital after their home went up in flames Friday morning.
It happened at the Highland Woods mobile home park off Quacco Road just before 7am Friday.
Southside firefighters responded to the blaze. Assistant fire chief Hugh Futrell says when firefighters were going through the home, they found evidence of a meth lab inside.
He said there were dozens of Sudafed tablets and some toxic chemicals in the kitchen.
But Futrell said it's unlikely that's what started the fire.
"We do believe it started in a back bedroom, possible a space heater. We are still looking into that. Other than that, we didn't see that the meth lab was involved in the fire which is a good thing because it means there were no hazardous material exposure to our people or general public around here."
Police arrested Krystal Lester. She is charged with manufacturing meth, possession of methamphetamine and possession of pseudoephedrine. Police are still looking for her boyfriend David Shyrock. He ran from the home before officers and firefighter arrived. He is wanted for questioning and for an outstanding warrant.
The couple's 5-week-old daughter was also living there. Her grandmother Beverly Beach, said she not only learned the baby was living in a home with a meth lab inside, but police told her the newborn was being neglected.
"From what we understand, she has problems from not being taken care of but other than that, she's in good health," said Beach. "It's terrifying, very terrifying."
Meanwhile, neighbors like Alicie Law, have already pitched in to help the newborn.
"I went around and got clothes and all for the baby, because everything was burnt up," said Law.
Beach says she is so grateful for their support and says even the firefighters donated items. "They bought diapers, formula, new bottles," she said.
She says while this fire destroyed much of the home, it may have a been a blessing for the baby girl.
"A new beginning, she needs a new beginning," Beach said.
Firefighters were also able to rescue a dog that was trapped in the house during the fire. Unfortunately, a second dog was found dead inside.
The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.
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