FLORENCE-The Florence Police Department held a press conference regarding the Sunday morning fire that took the life of John Kalama:
“Florence Police and Fire responded to a house fire in the 100 block of Whisperwood Trail at approximately 6:45 am on Sunday, December 10, 2017. Upon arrival, Police and Fire found the house at 123 Whisperwood Trail engulfed in flames. The home owner and her children were able to escape to a neighbor’s house.
Trisha Henry, the homeowner, advised that her former boss, John Kalama, came into her residence and started a fire. As some point during this time, Henry was able to get her children safely out of the house. As Kalama attempted to assault Henry, she retreated to her bedroom. He followed her, and shots were fired. She was then able to exit the home, unaware if Mr. Kalama was also able to exit the home. When the Florence Fire Department extinguished the fire, Officials discovered Mr. Kalama deceased inside the residence. The cause of death is unknown at this time. Mr. Kalama’s body has been released to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Huntsville, Alabama. An autopsy will be performed as part of the investigation.
At this time, Ms. Henry and her children are staying with family.
In addition to the Florence Police Department, the Florence Fire Department and the State Fire Marshall are conducting respective investigations. The residence appears to be a total loss.
If you, or anyone you know, has any information that can assist with this investigation, please contact Detective Troy Gurley at (256) 768-2764 or text a tip to 274637 using keyword “FPDTIP”, plus the message.”
