Jail Inmates Evacuated Again

Wed., May 31, 1995

From Staff And Wire Reports

For the second time in a week and a half, Kootenai County Jail inmates were evacuated from their cells, sheriff’s officials said Tuesday.

At about 8:15 a.m. Tuesday an electric smell wafted through the north end of the jail and set off the fire alarm, said jail Lt. Sam Grubbs.

The Coeur d’Alene Fire Department responded to the scene and about 30 inmates were moved to the jail’s outdoor recreation area.

When the same thing happened last week, the inmates broke into a fight as they were evacuated. Sheriff’s officials were quickly able to break the fight up, jail officials said.

Jail maintenance staff determined Tuesday the smoky smell was caused by a faulty heat pump fan motor in both instances.

Lt. Grubbs said the motor was replaced.

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Jail Inmates Evacuated Again

Jesse Tinsley

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