14 residents rescued by SJFD
The St. Johns Fire Command along with St. Johns Police Officers and Sheriff Deputies responded to a fire call at Autumn Ridge Apartments early Wednesday morning. They were on the scene within four minutes.
Police and St Johns Fire personnel were assisted by a couple of residents to rescue fourteen residents who were trapped in their apartments. Many those trapped were on the second and third floors of the building. They were removed through windows with ladders to balconies. Five ambulances were dispatched to the fire from Clinton Area Ambulance, Mercy Ambulance and Lansing-Mason Ambulance Services. Three people were transported to Sparrow Clinton Hospital where they were treated for cuts and smoke inhalation. EMS personnel treated several others at the scene.
Clinton Area Fire and Rescue Department also responded to the fire for Mutual Aid. They responded with equipment and manpower.
The fire was extinguished within minutes, but smoke removal and mop up took several hours.
The American Red Cross is helping about twenty-five residents who were displaced by the fire. with housing for those displaced by the fire.
“The quick response by emergency personnel in the evacuations of the residents prevented this incident from turning into a major disaster,” said Director of Public Safety Michael Madden. “All those involved should be commended for their actions,” he added.
Fire Chief Charlie Hyler will head the investigation into the cause of the fire. Preliminary evidence indicates no arson is suspected. Hyler estimates damage to be in excess of $25,000.00.
