Roseville

Fire destroys top floor of apartments

By Robin Ruehlen
C & G Staff Writer

Cause remains under investigation

ROSEVILLE — A Tuesday morning fire that engulfed the upper floors of an apartment complex at 14 Mile and Kelly Road did not result in any injuries, but is still under investigation, according to fire officials.

Roseville Fire Department Chief of Training Mike Holland said the fire at Southeastern Manor Apartments was reported at 9:04 a.m. Aug. 24, and personnel responded less than three minutes later. However, the call had come late, as one occupant had tried to put out the fire himself before dialing 911. 

“We don’t know how fast it really went up. We normally don’t see a fire this big, because we’re so close,” Holland said.

“What we want to encourage is, it’s best to call us immediately if you have a fire before you do anything else. We’d rather have you evacuate the building rather than try to extinguish it yourself.”

Firefighters from Eastpointe, St. Clair Shores, Warren, Fraser and Harper Woods also responded, and residents on the scene received assistance from Universal Ambulance and MedStar Ambulance, as well as the Salvation Army and the American Red Cross.

Holland said firefighters did need to help several residents out of the 12-unit complex, as some had walkers or couldn’t move as quickly. 

“There were also several animals in the building, but as far as I know, none were injured,” he said.

“The ones we did try to assist were very quick about escaping.”      

On Thursday morning, Fire Marshal Craig Robertson and K-9 arson specialist Windy were still digging through the remains of the building. Holland said although all six upstairs units were involved, the lower floors suffered only minor damage due to smoke and water.

“We don’t have a cause of origin right now, but at this point it is not suspicious,” Holland said.

You can reach C & G Staff Writer Robin Ruehlen at rruehlen@candgnews.com or at (586)279-1105.