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Fire after shootout at motel caused $350,000 in damage

Orlando Collins from Shawnee County Most Wanted Web site
Orlando Collins from Shawnee County Most Wanted Web site

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Topeka fire officials say a blaze that occurred at a motel following a shootout between federal agents and a suspect caused an estimated $350,000 in damage.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports three members of a federal fugitive task force were wounded Saturday night while trying to arrest 28-year-old Orlando Collins, who was killed in the shootout at the Country Club Motel complex. A fire broke out in the gunman’s room during the exchange of gunfire.

Topeka Fire Marshal Michael Martin says the damaged building housed 20 motel rooms. He says the blaze was started with “common combustibles” that could include paper or a mattress.

Collins was being sought on a federal robbery warrant. Topeka police have said Collins also was wanted for questioning about a tobacco store robbery.

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