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Tennessee Prison Fire #494253

NBC Evening News for Monday, Jun 27, 1977
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(Studio) Tennessee authorities say arson is reason for prison fire in Columbia, Tennessee, on Sunday Smoke contained cyanide fumes.
REPORTER: John Chancellor

(Columbia, Tennessee) Fire at Maury Cnty. jail outraced fire engines from 1 block away. [Inmate David MARTIN - describes experience.] Juvenile admits starting fire; officials say cigarette may have been tossed onto padding in cell. According to tests on victims, padding may have contained poison. [Ins. investigator Tom COPELAND - notes some tests show cyanide in blood samples.] Juvenile who started fire, Andrew Zinmer, is in Nashville hospital, but expected to live. Police say he may be charged with arson.
REPORTER: Eric Burns

Reporter(s):
Burns, Eric;
Chancellor, John
Duration:
00:01:40

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