URGENT UPDATE: A devastating house fire on Detroit’s west side has resulted in the tragic death of a 6-year-old girl and left two others injured, including her mother and 4-year-old brother. The incident occurred early this morning, December 10, 2023, on the 12000 block of Rutherford, near Greenfield and I-96.
Emergency responders received multiple calls just before 6 a.m., reporting that a woman and her two small children were potentially trapped inside the burning home. Neighbors described the harrowing scene as flames engulfed the house, which was still wrapped in ice and police tape by Sunday afternoon.
Marcus, a neighbor, rushed outside upon seeing the 4-year-old boy—who is reportedly autistic—standing alone in the frigid 5-degree weather. “I didn’t even put on no pants,” Marcus recounted. “I came out with my shorts on, ran out here and grabbed the baby.” However, when rescue crews arrived, they found the 6-year-old girl in the living room suffering from severe burns.
“This is a very difficult morning for the city of Detroit and the Detroit Fire Department,” stated Detroit Senior Fire Chief Leo Spitzig. Despite efforts to save the girl, she was transported to Sinai Grace Hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries. The mother is currently in serious condition, while her son is expected to fully recover from smoke inhalation.
Firefighters faced additional challenges during the rescue, as they discovered that a hydrant near the home was frozen and out of service. Fortunately, they were able to extinguish the flames despite this setback. “It’s obviously sad whenever we lose somebody, but when it is a child, it really hits home to all of us,” Spitzig added.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Detroit Fire Investigation Division and the Detroit Police Department. As the city mourns this tragic loss, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for emergencies during the harsh winter months.
Stay tuned for ongoing coverage as this story develops.
