Ohio Teen Killed by Collapsed Porch

July 16, 2007
His parents thought he was in his bedroom until they saw his body under debris.

CANTON, Ohio --

A fire swept through a Canton home, killing a teenager.

The fire caused the front porch to collapse, trapping the teen underneath.

By the time firefighters arrived at the scene late Friday, the fire was raging, officials said.

Michael Crislip's parents, Jim and Linda Crislip, thought he was in his upstairs bedroom until they saw his body trapped under debris that crashed down during the fire.

"All I kept thinking about was if it was my kids," said Katrina Dabney. "My kids played with him. I called my son and told him he said, 'quit lying mom, quit lying.' "

Deputy Stark County Coroner Rick Walters said the fire was so intense firefighters had a hard time putting it out.

Investigators said it could be a few days before they find out exactly what happened.

"He was just the nicest little boy," Dabney said. "He always stayed home. Played with his dog. He loved his dog. His dog was his best friend. It's so sad."

Officials are investigating a cause.

An autopsy will also be performed.

Additional information is likely to be released next week.

Copyright 2007 by NewsNet5. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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