ATF joins probe into Flora fire that killed 4 sisters

FLORA, Ind. (AP) - The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has joined the investigation into a Nov. 21 north central house fire that killed four sisters.

ATF spokesman David Coulson tells The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier says (http://on.jconline.com/2grRYQl ) the agency has joined local and state authorities as they continue to look for the cause of the fire in the Clinton County town of Flora.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security says the cause of fire was ruled "undetermined" last week due to the extensive amount of damage.

The fire killed 5-year-old Kionnie Welch, 7-year-old Kerriele McDonald, 9-year-old Keyara Phillips and 11-year-old Keyana Davis. Officials say the girls died of smoke inhalation. Their deaths were ruled accidental.

Their mother, Gaylin Rose, was hospitalized for several days.

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Information from: Journal and Courier, http://www.jconline.com