Community Risk

Okla. Girl, 11, Dies in Fire She Allegedly Started

Feb. 1, 2013

The blaze, fueled by gasoline, also destroyed the interior of the Waurika house owned by the girl's mother and step-father.

Source Waurika News-Democrat, Okla.

Jan. 31--WAURIKA -- While a cause of death has not yet been confirmed, investigators have determined the source of a fire that claimed the life of a Waurika girl on Jan. 18.

Based on information gathered by Oklahoma State Fire Marshal Judah Sheppard, 11-year-old Kaylie Renee Howard started the fire that took her life. The blaze, fueled by gasoline, also destroyed the interior of the house at 812 NE Meridian owned by Howard's mother and step-father Beverly and George Nored.

Sheppard's investigation determined Howard intentionally poured gas over personal belongings in her bedroom on the first floor of the house, and then ignited the items. A gas can belonging to the family was found in the bedroom area.

The report said the girl apparently sought shelter in a closet in the bedroom, where her body was later found, with Howard clutching a teddy bear.

The report also said authorities don't believe Howard intended to harm family members or destroy the home. Based on her age, the report said she wasn't aware of the full impact of her actions.

When the fire broke out at approximately 7:40 p.m. on Jan. 18, Howard's older brothers and a female friend were in the house. The three smelled smoke and were able to get out of the structure, but the oldest brother realized Howard was not outside. He returned to the house briefly but couldn't find the young girl.

Shortly after arriving and discovering someone might still be in the house, Waurika Police Chief Garry Whittington entered and conducted a search. Although the structure was still burning, Whittington discovered Howard's body, suffering second-degree burns during the search.

A cause of death is still pending, as the Oklahoma State Medical Examiner's office completes its findings.

Since the fire and Howard's death, a fund has been established for the family, which lost nearly all of its possessions. Donations can be sent to: Dudley Funeral Home, 414 N. Elm St., Waurika, OK 73573.

Donations may also be made to: Kaylie Howard Account, First Farmer's National Bank, P.O. Box 329, Waurika, OK 73573.