UPDATE: A tragic house fire in Detroit has claimed the life of a 6-year-old girl, with the incident unfolding early Sunday morning at approximately 6:00 AM on the 12000 block of Rutherford, near Greenfield and I-96. Fire crews battled the blaze amidst frigid temperatures, with the home still wrapped in ice and police tape as the investigation continues.
The fire ignited in a residence where a mother and her two small children, aged 4 and 6, were reportedly trapped. Neighbors rushed to help, with one, identified as Marcus, recalling the harrowing moment he saw the 4-year-old boy outside in 5-degree weather. “I didn’t even put on no pants,” he stated, recounting how he immediately dashed outside in shorts to rescue the child.
Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered the 6-year-old girl in the living room, suffering from severe burns. “We heard her screaming,” Marcus noted, expressing his desperation to re-enter the burning structure. Firefighters faced additional challenges as one of the hydrants near the home was found frozen, complicating their efforts to extinguish the flames.
Detroit Senior Fire Chief Leo Spitzig confirmed that despite immediate medical attention at Sinai Grace Hospital, the young girl succumbed to her injuries. “It’s a very difficult morning for the city of Detroit and the Detroit Fire Department,” Spitzig said, emphasizing the emotional toll of losing a child just 11 days before Christmas.
The mother was reported to be in serious condition, while the 4-year-old boy is recovering from smoke inhalation. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, with both the Detroit Fire Investigation Division and the Detroit Police Department involved in the case.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the urgent need for safety measures, especially during the winter months when fires can escalate rapidly. As the community mourns, officials remind residents to ensure their homes are equipped with working smoke detectors and fire safety plans.
The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to be released as authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
