photo by Amy Maxwell
Darrel Eric Chapman, 49, died in a house fire in Red Bank early Friday morning after the homeowner said he was awakened by popping sounds.
Red Bank Police Chief Tim Christol said the case is being considered an arson/suicide.
He said, "At approximately 12:30 a.m., the Red Bank Fire and Police departments responded to a residential fire at 604 Bitsy Lane where they discovered a body inside the downstairs apartment. After a thorough examination of all available evidence and review of the preliminary autopsy results from the Hamilton County Medical Examiner’s Office, we have determined that this is being investigated as a suicide, arson.
"While the damage to the structure appears to be totaled, there does not appear to have been any other injuries associated with this event."
Authorities initially said that the homeowner, Larry Bullington, called 911 to report a fire at his residence. The Red Bank Fire Department responded within minutes reporting heavy fire coming from the attic and the back of the house.
The Red Bank Fire Department immediately called for a mutual aid response for additional manpower. Walden's Ridge Emergency Services, the Soddy Daisy Fire Department and the Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene.
Firefighters conducted a "defensive attack" due to a structural collapse on the back side of the home.
The homeowner said, after he was awakened by the noise, he went to investigate and found heavy smoke and fire coming from the basement. He was able to escape with no injuries.
The house is a total loss. Fire officials reported damages at $175,000.
Mr. Bullington had taught art classes at the residence.
photo by Amy Maxwell