AU coach’s home burned by lightning fire

By Katie Stallcup

Published: July 22, 2008

Firefighters battled a blaze early Tuesday evening after lightning struck a house in the upscale subdivision of Tamplin Farms.

Auburn Fire Division, Southwest Volunteer Fire Department and ambulance service responded at approximately 4:30 p.m.

Neighbors said they heard a loud clap of thunder about five minutes before they noticed flames coming from the house on Kirkland Drive, off Wire Road.

The home was that of Auburn University Track and Field Coach Ralph Spry. The family, watching from the neighbor’s yard, declined to comment.

The fire started in the attic and did extensive damage, Auburn Fire Division Training Chief John Lankford said. No injuries were reported, he said.

Within half an hour, the house’s roof was completely gone.

For the complete story, pick up a copy of Wednesday’s edition of the Opelika-Auburn News, or visit http://www.oanow.com.