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Man Dies Trying to Rescue Cat From Fire

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By Associated Press

November 26, 2005, 6:12 AM EST


DAYTON, Ohio -- A man who rushed into a burning house to rescue a cat died in the fire, authorities said.

A faulty extension cord caused the fire Thursday afternoon that killed Michael H. Murphy, 48, of Dayton. The Montgomery County coroner's office said an autopsy would be performed Friday to determine the cause of death.

Murphy lived in the house with his mother. Both left as the fire spread, but Murphy ran back inside when he realized his pet had been left behind, said District Fire Chief Mark Whisman.

Neighbors said the cat that Murphy was trying to rescue also died, but a second cat survived.

Cam Cantrell, who lives nearby, said he has known the family for about 40 years. He said Murphy often ran errands for older people living in the neighborhood.

"He was willing to help everybody. I'm sorry for his family; I hate that this happened," Cantrell said.