ID still unknown in fatal car blaze

— Crawford County authorities are waiting for the state Crime Laboratory to confirm the identity and cause of death of a Fort Smith woman whose charred remains were found in a burning car in Crawford County last week.

Crawford County sheriff’s Chief Deputy Ron Brown said the body was found in a Hyundai Sonata about 2 p.m. Friday after two fishermen arrived at Clear Creek Park east of Kibler in Crawford County and discovered the burning car.

Firefighters from rural fire District 7 extinguished the fire and found the remains of a human burned beyond recognition in the driver seat, Brown said. Firefighters believe the fire started inside the car, he said.

It was not determined Friday whether the fire was the result of an accident, foul play or was set by the deceased person, he said.

From the tag information, deputies were able to trace the car to a Fort Smith couple. Brown said the wife said her sister owned the car but that she was making the payments because her sister was out of work and was living with the couple.

Brown said he would not reveal the identities of those involved until he hears from the crime lab.

The body was sent to the crime lab Saturday and other evidence collected from the scene was delivered Monday, he said.

The investigation is on hold until the lab reports its findings, Brown said.

Northwest Arkansas, Pages 12 on 07/20/2010

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