Ex-Member Of Wailers Dies Of Fire Injuries

TACOMA

Ron Gardner, a former member of the renowned Northwest rock band the Wailers, has died of injuries suffered in a fire.

Gardner, 45, was apparently asleep inside a motor home when it caught fire Dec. 16, authorities said. The vehicle was parked on his Christmas tree lot near a south Tacoma bowling and entertainment center.

Gardner suffered burns on his head, neck, arms and back, among other injuries. He died Wednesday afternoon in the burn unit at St. Joseph Hospital.

Fire investigators believe a faulty electric blanket or space heater may have started the fire.