House fire claims life of 4-year-old

By By Steve Gillespie / staff writer
Aug. 7, 2003
A fire late Wednesday morning at 809 65th Ave., claimed the life of 4-year-old Christopher Waller today.
Meridian Fire Chief Bunky Partridge said the child, who was transported to Jackson by search and rescue helicopter from Naval Air Station Meridian, died at 3 a.m. today.
The child's sister, Destiny Waller, 2, was also hospitalized. Partridge said she was taken to Jeff Anderson Regional Medical Center. He said the little girl's main problem appeared to be smoke inhalation.
A firefighter also suffered a singed ear in what was described by Partridge as a minor injury.
Although the origin of the fire is still under investigation by the Meridian Fire Department, Partridge said the preliminary investigation indicates the fire may have been caused with matches or a lighter.
The Waller's home, which was being rented, was fully involved when firefighters got to the scene about 10 a.m. Partridge said the children and their mother were in the front yard.
The house sustained heavy damage. Partridge said the investigation may be complete within a couple of days.