Yesterday, the tranquility of a Benton Harbor neighborhood was disrupted by rising flames consuming a vacant building, once home to G&G Grocery Store. In an effort mounted by multiple agencies, the blaze that broke out at 6:40 a.m. was battled, with the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety spearheading the response. With assistance, including the Benton Charter Township and the St. Joseph Department of Public Safety, firefighters deployed to 861 Buss Avenue to address the conflagration, WZZM 13 reported.
Upon arrival, crews were greeted by heavy smoke and fire, their efforts, while arduous, proved effective, managing to contain the damage to mere external scathing of two nearby homes, a garage, and a car. Despite the chaos, there were no injuries reported. According to WWMT, the fire is being treated with suspicion, with indicators suggesting an intentional act may be at play, prompting the BHDPS to actively investigate its cause.
Benton Harbor police are appealing to the public for any information regarding the fire, as a statement received by WOODTV points to indications that the fire was intentionally set. A robust muster of fourteen agencies contributed to the firefighting efforts, including state police and townships from far and wide. The Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety is requesting that anyone with information about the fire contact them at 269-443-1027.
