Man arrested after running into burning house to save computer

By TIM HARLOW, Star Tribune

Last update: July 8, 2008 - 3:23 PM

A Winona man could not save his house from burning down, but he was determined to rescue his computer.

Nicholas Christopher Guy, 53, defied orders from firefighters to stay back and twice ran into his burning house. He got the computer, and a citation for obstructing a fire scene and disorderly conduct, said Deputy Chief Tom Williams.

Fire crews encountered an visibly upset and intoxicated Guy when they arrived at his residence on the 400 block of E. 2nd St. Sunday evening. They ordered him to stay behind the perimeter and he complied for a while. But Guy ran inside when nobody was watching him, Williams said.

Police and firefighters chased after Guy, who emerged carrying his PC tower, Williams said.

"He put everybody in harms way," Williams said. "We have no idea what was on that computer, but it piques your interest."

Guy was cited and booked into the Winona County Jail and then released. He is scheduled to appear in court on July 28.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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