July 18, 2006

PADUCAH, Ky. (AP) -- The Jackson House in Paducah, Kentucky was ordered to be evacuated Monday evening after several days without air conditioning.

The air conditioning unit at the senior citizen building went out on Friday. 

Some residents have gone to stay with friends and family. Others took advantage of an invitation from a local church to camp out in the cool there and still others got discounted rooms at a local hotel.

An 89-year-old woman was found dead inside the building Sunday night. The McCracken County coroner's office said Dorothy Farris died between 10:00 p.m. and midnight on Sunday.

Police said the temperature in Farris' 5th floor residence was between 85 and 91 degrees when her body was discovered. 

Officials said they're not sure if Farris' death was heat related.  Her body has been sent to the medical examiner's office in Louisville to determine the cause of death.

The Jackson House staff bought more than 200 fans for residents who didn't want to leave home. They're hoping to have the AC fixed by Tuesday, but say it all depends on how long it takes to get in the necessary part.

Officials say it could even be Wednesday before the senior citizens building is cooled down.

Meanwhile, temperatures are expected to be in the mid to upper 90's all week.

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